Ryan Harris named Australia bowling coach

Former Australia fast bowler Ryan Harris has been appointed Australia’s bowling coach for the team’s upcoming ODI tour of South Africa.

He joins head coach Darren Lehmann and assistant coach David Saker in Australia’s coaching staff.

Harris, who retired from cricket in July 2015, is currently assistant coach of the National Performance Squad in the A-team quadrangular series in Australia. He also served as the Under-19 Cricket Australia XI coach last season.

‘It’s great experience to learn from David Saker and Darren Lehmann,’ Harris said of the appointment. ‘I’m really just going to sit back and watch and learn, reports ESPNcricinfo.

‘Eventually I’d like to work my way to the top and become a [full-time] bowling coach of the Australian team one day. Just like playing, you have to earn your stripes and learn the ropes.’

Harris took 113 wickets in 27 Tests and 44 wickets in 21 ODIs for Australia, in an injury-plagued career.

Eventually injury ended his career, a recurring right-knee problem forcing him to retire at the age of 35.

Lehmann welcomed the addition of Harris to the coaching staff. ‘I’m excited to have Ryan on board,’ he said. ‘It’s a win-win having two experienced coaches in Ryan and David Saker being able to nurture our young group, particularly the up-and-coming bowlers joining, and we expect a positive response both on and off the field.’

On the tour of South Africa, which kicks off on September 27, Australia are scheduled to play a one-off ODI against Ireland and a five-match series against the hosts.