John Bracewell Tasked with Leading Ireland to Test Status

New Zealander John Bracewell has been tasked with leading Ireland on the final leg towards Test status, with his experience of playing and coaching his native country at international level seeing him win out over former South Africa one-day player Dale Benkenstein.

“There is nothing I enjoy more than fighting for a cause, and in cricket terms there is none better than obtaining Test status,” said Bracewell, 57, who played 41 Test matches and 53 ODIs for New Zealand.

Known as an innovative and hands-on coach, Bracewell led New Zealand between 2003 and 2008, bringing them to the semi-finals of the 2007 World Cup, and he also spent two spells with Gloucestershire from 1999 to 2003 and 2009 to 2014.

During his time in Bristol, where he won six trophies, he worked with Ireland skipper William Porterfield, who welcomed news that he will be linking up again with his former coach.

“It’s a fantastic appointment for Irish cricket,” Porterfield said. “His vast experience in all formats of the game both internationally and domestically will stand us in great stead, especially as we build towards our goal of Test cricket.”

Original article by Emmet Riordan, The Irish Times, April 30, 2015.

Photo by Photosport.