New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced that former captain Stephen Fleming and former England batter Ian Bell will join the team’s coaching staff ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Fleming, who is currently the head coach of the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), will be an assistant coach for the upcoming T20I series against England. He will then join the team for the ODI series against England and Bangladesh, as well as the World Cup itself.
Bell, who has been working as an assistant coach at Birmingham Phoenix in the men’s Hundred, will be the batting coach for the T20I series against England and the ODI series against Bangladesh.
The appointments of Fleming and Bell are seen as a major boost for New Zealand ahead of the World Cup. Fleming is one of the most successful coaches in the world, having led Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles. Bell, meanwhile, is a former England captain and one of the most elegant batsmen of his generation.
The full New Zealand coaching staff for the upcoming tours is as follows:
- Head coach: Gary Stead
- Assistant coaches: Stephen Fleming, Ian Bell, James Foster
- Bowling coach: Shane Jurgensen
- Fielding coach: Craig McMillan
- Strength and conditioning coach: Chris Donaldson
- Physiotherapist: Paul Close
- Analyst: Nathan Gymer
Also Read: Half-Life 2 Remastered Gets Ray Tracing.
New Zealand will play a T20I series against England from August 30 to September 3, followed by an ODI series from September 6 to 11. They will then play a three-match ODI series against Bangladesh in September. The 2023 ODI World Cup will be held in India from October 17 to November 14.
Fleming’s previous experience with New Zealand
Fleming has previous experience coaching New Zealand, having served as an assistant coach under John Wright from 2008 to 2011. He was also the head coach of the New Zealand Under-19 team from 2004 to 2006.
In his previous stint with New Zealand, Fleming helped the team win the 2011 World Cup. He is also credited with helping to develop the careers of several young players, including Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, and Brendon McCullum.
Bell’s previous experience as a coach
Bell is relatively new to coaching, having only started his career in the role in 2020. He has worked as an assistant coach at Birmingham Phoenix in the men’s Hundred and at the England Academy.
However, Bell is a highly respected figure in cricket and his appointment is seen as a major coup for New Zealand. He is known for his calm demeanor and his ability to connect with players.
New Zealand’s preparations for the World Cup
New Zealand are one of the favorites to win the 2023 ODI World Cup. They have a strong team with a good mix of experience and youth.
The additions of Fleming and Bell to the coaching staff will only strengthen New Zealand’s chances of success. Fleming’s experience and Bell’s knowledge of the modern game will be invaluable to the team.
New Zealand will be looking to build on their recent form in the lead-up to the World Cup. They have won their last three ODI series, including a 3-0 whitewash of England in England earlier this year.
The World Cup will be a tough tournament, but New Zealand will be confident of their chances with Fleming and Bell in their corner.