Greatbatch steps into New Zealand coaching role
Mark Greatbatch's first duties as coach of New Zealand will come against Bangladesh next week after his appointment ended the side's four-month search. Greatbatch will have a strong focus on the squad's batting and will work with the assistants Mark O'Donnell and Shane Jurgensen, while the captain Daniel Vettori remains involved in team selection and strategy.
The reshuffle comes after Andy Moles resigned in October and since then Vettori has been in charge of guiding the team. Originally New Zealand had hoped for a big-name signing, but they have been forced to appoint from within. Greatbatch, who played 41 Tests, has been on the selection panel and was with the team during their series against Pakistan in Dubai.
"There is a real desire for success within this current unit and there are some very talented individuals," Greatbatch said. "I believe that I can make a very positive contribution to the team and to the batting unit in particular."
Vettori said Greatbatch had a lot of respect from within the side and had made a strong impression during his work with the squad. "The team will respond very well to Mark's influence and collectively we can become a better and even more successful cricket team," he said. "Ultimately though, we will be judged on our results on the field, and it is up to us players to step up to the mark and perform."
Justin Vaughan, New Zealand's chief executive, believes the new combination will work well together. "Mark will maintain his selectorial responsibilities, as well as providing specialist batting coaching and acting as a sounding board to the captain over game tactics," he said. "It is really a continuation of the role he played successfully during the team's tour to the UAE." The first game of Bangladesh's tour is a Twenty20 international in Hamilton on Wednesday.
