"I can't wait for the start of BBL 14" - Tim Paine replaces Jason Gillespie as Adelaide Strikers' coach
Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine has been appointed as the head coach of the Adelaide Strikers ahead of the 14th season of the Big Bash League (BBL). The former wicketkeeper-batter will replace Jason Gillespie, who is now the red-ball coach of Pakistan's men's team.
Paine played his last BBL game two years ago for the Hobart Hurricanes and took on the role of the assistant coach for the Strikers ahead of the 13th edition. The 39-year-old is currently in Darwin as NT Strike's assistant coach in the Top End T20 series. The Tasmanian has also served Adam Voges as an assistant coach in the 2023 Australia A series against New Zealand and was a mentor in the national Under-19s program.
Paine said he is excited about starting the new role with the Strikers and is thrilled by the team's potential to win several trophies. He was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au:
"I am honoured 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. 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. Having been on the losing side when the Strikers defeated Hobart Hurricanes to claim their first title win in BBL|07, I can vouch for the fantastic atmosphere created by the fans at Adelaide Oval."
Paine had an unceremonious exit from the international arena, stepping down as Australia's Test captain ahead of the 2021-22 Ashes series due to a sexting saga. Having debuted in 2009, he played 35 Tests, 35 ODIs, and 12 T20Is.
"We are also delighted with his clear vision" - SACA CEO on Tim Paine's appointment
South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) CEO Charlie Hodgson opined that Tim Paine's leadership qualities and insights were significant in their run to last summer's Challenger final.
"Tim's leadership qualities, tactical insights and ability to foster a strong and united team environment within the Strikers' playing group was a significant factor in the team's success in reaching last summer's Challenger final. We are also delighted with his clear vision to ensure the Strikers remain closely involved and strongly aligned to South Australia's cricket development programs, and to further enhance the club's standing among the state's loyal and passionate cricket fans," he told cricket.com.au.
The 14th season of BBL begins on December 15.