Cricket Australia (CA) has appointed Adam Griffith, a former Tasmania fast bowler and accomplished coach, as the new National Pace Bowling Coach. This position, reintroduced to enhance the development of Australia's next generation of fast bowlers, was first advertised in October.
The role is designed to manage fast bowlers across both international and domestic programs, addressing injury concerns and ensuring a cohesive approach to their workload. Reporting to CA's Head of National Teams, Ben Oliver, Griffith will also collaborate with Australia Men's Head Coach Andrew McDonald and Bowling Coach Daniel Vettori, who will continue traveling with the team.
Griffith, 46, brings a wealth of experience, having served as Victoria's bowling coach, Tasmania’s head coach, and a senior assistant coach with Western Australia and the Perth Scorchers under Justin Langer. His resume includes stints with IPL’s Royal Challengers Bangalore, the Hobart Hurricanes, and the San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket. Additionally, he has previously worked with the Australian men’s team during bilateral tours in 2012 and 2016, as well as the 2019 ODI World Cup.
Based at CA's Centre of Excellence in Brisbane, Griffith will implement a national strategy for fast-bowling development, oversee preparation for national and Australia A teams, and step in during Vettori's absence due to franchise commitments. He will also focus on nurturing fast-bowling coaches and coordinating with state programs.
The timing of Griffith’s appointment is crucial as Australia faces challenges with their fast-bowling depth. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood are nearing the twilight of their careers, making succession planning critical. Griffith’s prior work with emerging talents like Riley Meredith, Nathan Ellis, and Beau Webster highlights his ability to develop players for higher levels.
Griffith has also played a pivotal role in managing injuries and aiding recoveries, such as Will Sutherland’s return from back stress fractures and Cameron Green's early development in Western Australia. His IPL experience with players like Josh Hazlewood and Mohammed Siraj adds significant value in balancing player commitments during the evolving franchise cricket landscape.
Head Coach Andrew McDonald expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Adam's expertise across all formats will be invaluable in preparing our pace bowlers for the national men's teams."
Griffith will finish the domestic season with Victoria before moving to Brisbane to assume his new responsibilities.
Updated on 25th January, 2025 by MyFortune11 Team.