Hobart Hurricanes rope in South African great Gary Kirsten as new BBL coach

The Hobart Hurricanes from Australia’s KFC Big Bash League have appointed South African legend Gary Kirsten as their coach for the next season of the tournament. The Hurricanes confirmed today that they have acquired Kirsten’s services for a two-year deal. After a disappointing season in the 2016 edition of the Big Bash, the Hurricanes parted ways with their former coach Damien Wright.

A Cricket Tasmania panel that consisted of Australian greats Ricky Ponting and David Boon decided to lure Kirsten into the Hurricanes staff. Moreover, Hurricanes general manager Bill Avery was very impressed by the South African’s vision for the club’s future.

“Gary has a contemporary approach to T20 coaching and is looking forward to creating a vibrant and strong environment for players to succeed,” Avery was quoted as saying to cricket.com.au.

“We are striving for the Hurricanes to be a BBL club of choice for local and international T20 players – and Gary shares this vision,” he added.

Gary Kirsten, who was instrumental in marshalling the Indian Cricket Team to the 2011 World Cup win, had an illustrious career himself. He has more than 7000 runs under his belt in Tests and remains one of South Africa’s most prolific batsmen.

The former Proteas batsman was also involved with IPL franchise Delhi Daredevils for three years. Kirsten, who is currently based in Cape Town, has obliged to move to Hobart during the BBL season. “I have thoroughly enjoyed watching BBL over the past few years and I’m really looking forward to this coaching opportunity with the Hurricanes,” said Kirsten.

The Hobart Hurricanes have had rather unsuccessful seasons so far, failing to make it to the finals over the last three years. In 2016, they finished at 7th position, only to be ahead of the Sydney Thunder.

Kirsten, who is eager to take on the responsibility of coaching the Hurricanes, said, “I would also like to help create an environment which enables a positive and entertaining brand of T20 cricket and to help deliver consistent success to the club.”