Saker signs new contract, to be with England for next two Ashes series
By ANIFriday, January 7, 2011
LONDON - England’s bowling coach David Saker has signed a further three-year deal with the team that should guarantee his involvement in the next two Ashes series.
He should now be available for Australia’s visit to England in 2013 and an Ashes series in Australia that could be brought forward to the following 2013-14 winter.
Saker has been a hugely influential figure in the first win in Australia for 24 years.
Under his guidance Jimmy Anderson has proved his vast potential and support fast bowlers such as Chris Tremlett and Tim Bresnan joined the Ashes campaign as if they had never been away, The Guardian reports.
Australia’s opener Shane Watson, who jokingly referred to Saker as an ex-mate as England closed in on a series victory, said: “I think having an Aussie has helped England out.”
The ECB’s commitment was such that Hugh Morris, the managing director of English cricket, was involved in negotiations with Saker at the start of the Ashes tour, even before England’s success was assured.
Victoria won two Sheffield Shields and four out of five T20 tournaments when Saker was assistant coach. The Delhi Daredevils made him their coach for the inaugural Champions League tournament. (ANI)
