Image Credit- AP
Prior to the start of Major League Cricket (MLC) in
the United States, Ricky Ponting, a former captain of Australia, has been named
head coach of the Washington Freedom team. Greg Shipperd, a longstanding mentor
and coach of the Sydney Sixers, who guided Freedom to a third-place finish in
the inaugural season, will be replaced by him.
In order to concentrate on the New South Wales Blues
and the Sixers in Australia’s home circuit, Shipperd resigned.
Ponting has held positions in short-form cricket with
the Mumbai Indians and the Australian men’s squad in addition to his present
position as head coach of the Delhi Capitals in the IPL. He has agreed to coach
Freedom for the ensuing two years.
“I’m extremely excited to be joining the
Washington Freedom in 2024,” Ponting said in a statement. “Cricket is
really on the rise in the US and I’m looking forward to being involved in Major
League Cricket. I’ve been impressed by everyone involved at Washington Freedom,
and, while it’s a bit surreal to be replacing my mate Greg Shipperd, there’s
probably no one better to set up a successful franchise. I’m ready to build on
his work as we look towards the coming season.”
Michael Klinger, the CNSW Head of Male T20 Cricket and
General Manager of Cricket at Washington Freedom, said Ponting’s signing would
have a significant impact on the organisation and cricket in the USA.
“Ricky was one of the most recognised and revered
cricketers in the world during his playing days and is now one of the most
respected and coveted coaches on the global circuit,” Klinger said.
“It is a huge coup, not only for Washington Freedom and the partnership
with Cricket NSW, but more holistically for Major League Cricket and cricket in
North America in general.
“Players want to play for Ricky. He has an
incredible eye for talent and a skill in bringing the best out of those
players. Ricky will work with some of our CNSW coaches and players who are part
of the Washington Freedom set up and we look forward to building on the
foundations for success from the first edition of MLC.”