Adelaide Strikers appoint Tim Paine as new head coach for upcoming BBL season

Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine has been appointed as the new head coach of the Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season. Paine's coaching career comes less than two years after he hung up his boots as a professional cricketer.

The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) recently decided to split the roles of state and BBL coaches. This led to the departure of Jason Gillespie, under whom Paine served as an assistant coach last season. The vacancy allowed Paine to step into a prominent coaching position.

Since retiring from professional cricket, he has put himself in various coaching roles, gaining valuable experience across different levels of the game. His recent stint as Gillespie's assistant with the Strikers provided him with crucial insights.

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Looking forward to being part and taking Adelaide Strikers forward: Tim Paine

The former wicketkeeper-batter's coaching resume is already impressive. He is currently working with NT Strike in the Top End T20 series and has previously assisted Adam Voges with Australia A. 

Additionally, the former cricketer has contributed to developing young talent through his involvement with the Under-19 setup and has even worked with the women's team.

"I am honored and excited by the opportunity to coach such a well-established and strongly supported club, and I can't wait for the start of BBL|14 in December," Paine said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

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Paine's appointment comes at a crucial time for the Strikers. Last season, the team grew late, securing four consecutive victories to reach the finals. They even managed to defeat the defending champions, Perth Scorchers, in the Knockout stage before losing to the eventual winners, Brisbane Heat, in the Challenger.

"After spending time in Adelaide last year, I believe the Strikers team and the whole of South Australian cricket has huge potential and I'm looking forward to being part of taking it forward and winning a few trophies," he concluded.