Sunil Joshi becomes World T20-bound Oman's spin coach
Former Indian left-arm orthodox bowler Sunil Joshi is all set to join the Oman Cricket team. With the ICC World Twenty20 in India next year set to be the first major ICC tournament outing for Oman, the team has chosen Joshi’s services as their spin coach.
The Indian connection in the Oman cricket team runs extensive with four Indian-origin players among the core members and now Joshi joins them as a part of the coaching team. The team travels to India this weekend to start preparations for the tournament,1 which is scheduled to be held in India from 8th March to 3rd April.
In an interview, the former India spinner said: “It is a great opportunity for me to work with a national team, especially on a big stage like the World Cup. India hosting the event makes it all the more special.
“I have always wanted to specialize as a spin coach, I guess this is the right opportunity because I get to work with about nine spinners, of whom 5-6 are regulars. I'm entering the unknown because I haven't met the players yet, but I've done my homework and will surely give my all."
Looking forward to working with Mendis: Joshi
Former Sri Lanka captain Duleep Mendis is the head coach and Joshi is looking forward to working with him and said: “Having Mendis as head coach helps, because he comes from the land of spin. His knowledge will go a long way in shaping the team."
The 45-year-old’s first official coaching assignment was in 2011-12 when he took over the reins of the Hyderabad Ranji team and guided them from the Plate division to the quarter-finals in his first season.
After three years with Hyderabad, Joshi coached Jammu and Kashmir last year. He has helped many spinners like England's Monty Panesar and South African off-break bowler Simon Harmer.
The Oman team will come together in Rajkot on Saturday for a training camp to gain “exposure” before the World T20. The Karnataka-born spinner said: “They are coming down to understand the conditions. Next month I will travel to Oman for the camp.”
Apart from bowling, Joshi will also help the wicketkeepers and batsmen on tackling spin.
“In March, most of the venues will be hot and hence the wickets will offer ample turn, I will try and help them understand how to keep wickets on turning tracks and how to bat against spin. Bowling and batting everyone can do, how to react to situations and pitches is what I will try to impart,”