Irish Cricket have turned to a New Zealander to spear head their quest for Test Status. They have appointed the highly experienced John Bracewell as Phil Simmons replacement.
The 57 year old played 41 Tests and 53 one-day internationals for his country as an off-spin bowler, before going on to coach the New Zealand team for five years. He also had two successful spells at the County Championship side Gloucestershire. That produced five one-day trophies and the championship Division Two title in 2002.
Ireland captain William Porterfield worked with Bracewell at Gloucestershire. "It's a fantastic appointment for Irish cricket. His vast experience in all formats of the game both internationally and domestically will stand us in great stead, especially as we build towards our goal of Test cricket. He improved my game tremendously when I worked with him at Gloucestershire.”
Bracewell will fill an observatory role at Ireland’s One Day International against England in Malahide next week He will then take charge of the team for the first time in an Intercontinental Cup match against the U-A-E in June.
