Australian Cricket team head coach Andrew McDonald has penned a four-year extension on his current deal as confirmed by Cricket Australia (CA) on Wednesday (Oct 30). McDonald, having helped the Aussies win the World Test Championship (WTC) and the ODI World Cup in 2023 will stay at the helm until the next edition of the ODI World Cup. The deal also means he will remain in charge of the side during Australia’s next India tour for the Border-Gavaksar Trophy.
“I am very fortunate to have an exceptional group of leaders, players, coaches and staff who are fully invested in the ongoing well-being, success and development of this group,” McDonald said. “The professionalism, commitment and experience of my fellow coaches and the wider staff have ensured the journey has been extremely successful but just as importantly created a culture of unity, trust and inclusivity.”
Having taken charge of the side after Justin Langer’s unfortunate exit from the role in 2022, McDonald has been a popular figure in the Australian camp. He has been instrumental in driving the team’s approach in all three formats where Australia have stamped their authority. His biggest achievement was to lead Australia to the ODI World Cup in India in 2023 despite the team losing the opening two matches of the league stage.
The 43-year-old former Victoria all-rounder will now have the opportunity to win Test series in England and India during the extended term.
Nick Hockley, the Cricket Australia CEO, said: “Andrew has proven to be an outstanding men’s head coach who as well as delivering exceptional results has built a strong coaching team, methodology and an excellent environment for the team to perform at its best. We are delighted to extend his tenure for a further two years.”