Former pacer Ryan Harris has been named the new head coach of South Australia’s men’s cricket team. He takes over from Jason Gillespie, who has become the head coach of Pakistan’s red-ball team.
Sixteen years after leaving South Australia for Queensland, Harris returns to lead his home state’s team.
Harris, who previously served as Gillespie’s assistant and interim replacement, will oversee the Sheffield Shield and One-Day Cup squads.
“I’m thrilled and honored to be appointed Head Coach of South Australia, where I began my first-class playing journey more than 20 years ago,” Harris said. “Having worked closely with the boys last summer and during our current pre-season training, I know what this squad is capable of and can’t wait to get started and build on the positive steps we saw last year.”
Under new captain Nathan McSweeney, Harris aims to build on last season’s progress and instill a sense of self-belief in the squad. Harris’ coaching experience includes leading the national men’s under-19 team to two World Cups and stints in the IPL with Kings XI Punjab and Delhi Capitals.
SACA president Will Rayner expressed excitement about Harris’ appointment, noting his success in the interim role and the thorough search process that led to his selection. “We are really excited to welcome Ryan into the head coach role,” Rayner said. “We conducted a thorough search process throughout world cricket. Not only has Ryan excelled in that process, but he has also done a brilliant job in the interim role over the past few months.”
With a new captain in Nathan McSweeney and a developing young team, South Australia looks forward to making great strides this coming summer under Harris’ guidance.
