Andrew McDonald Tipped To Become Cricket Australia's New Coach
The former player has resounding support from the playing group.
Out: J. Langer
In: A. McDonald
Cricket Australia is expected to announce in coming days that Andrew McDonald will replace Justin Langer as the Australian men's cricket coach.
Following Langer's resignation earlier this year, McDonald took over as interim coach and is tipped to be announced as the formal replacement within the next few days.
According to a report, the job was offered to McDonald earlier this week and it's now on McDonald to decide whether he wants the head honcho role or not.
The news was met with nothing but praise from former Australian Test captain Michael Clarke, calling it "fantastic", but did warn the players will now have to perform under McDonald's leadership.
"This is exactly what the players want, there is no doubt about that," Clarke said on The Big Sports Breakfast.
"If they don't perform and Pat Cummins doesn't perform now as captain, he's going to have extreme pressure on him. He's had Justin Langer sacked pretty much. He came out and said this is what the players wanted, and he is the face of the players as captain and said we want Andrew McDonald.
"Everything is going their way, which is good if they're winning but if you're losing accountability comes with that."
McDonald would be set to coach all three formats should he be appointed, although he could be given select white ball tours off.
The news is no surprise to those within cricket circles with skipper Pat Cummins declaring last month: "The boys absolutely love him".
Clarke's most recent comments just reaffirm his belief that McDonald is the right man for the job with the 41-year-old previously declaring McDonald's attitude was exactly what the players were looking for.
"If that's what makes the right coach, then lock Andrew McDonald in for a 20-year contract because 'Mac' is a great fella," Clarke said.
"He was a wonderful player, but 'Macca' is a jet, he is a great man. He would be an awesome coach but if the team wants a good bloke, you can lock him in for a 20-year deal because you won't find too many better. It's a no-brainer in JL resigning, this is exactly what the players wanted."
Featured Image Credit: Getty ImagesTopics: Cricket, Andrew McDonald, Australia
Ryan Rosendale