Following Justin Langer’s resignation this morning, Australia’s men’s cricket team is looking for a new coach, with six candidates leading the race to replace him.
McDonald, Andrew
The most likely option, and the man named interim head coach by Cricket Australia this afternoon while they search for Langer’s replacement. In previous white-ball series, he filled in for Langer, and he also has an apprenticeship in charge of Victoria. Has overseas roles in franchise Twenty20 leagues, but could easily drop them to take over as Australia’s top cricketer.
Bayliss, Trevor
The Australian coach led England to their most recent Ashes victory in 2015, as well as the 2019 ODI World Cup title. Is now back in Sydney coaching the Thunder, in addition to various other Twenty20 roles around the world. During his time as coach of NSW last decade, he developed a close relationship with several players, particularly captain Pat Cummins, who hails from Penrith. A well-known proponent of dividing the coaching role between red and white ball formats. Has stated that the senior Australia position is the only international coaching position he would consider.
Gillespie, Jason
When Darren Lehmann resigned in the aftermath of the ball-tampering scandal in 2018, Langer was a genuine contender. After a two-year stint with Yorkshire that included two consecutive County Championship titles, the former quick was linked to the England job in 2019. If he does not get the Australian job, England may consider hiring the current South Australia and Adelaide Strikers coach to replace the departed Chris Silverwood.
Ponting, Ricky
While a popular and well-credentialed option, Ponting has previously stated that the workload of an international head coaching role does not appeal to him and his young family. He assisted Langer during the 2019 ODI World Cup and has stated that he is open to short-term roles with the national team in the future. With media and family obligations, as well as involvement in the Indian Premier League, the former Test captain is an outside chance at best, especially after the acrimonious departure of his close friend, Langer.
Shipperd, Greg
An outside option with a long history of success in Australian domestic cricket who has made a name for himself. Given his recent success with the Sydney Sixers as well as four seasons in charge of the Melbourne Stars in their early days, he would also be well equipped for a white-ball role if it was split. Again, he has a close relationship with many players as a result of his time in domestic roles.
Di Venuto, Michael
Another current assistant, alongside Andrew McDonald and Jeff Vaughan, who would be the list’s biggest outside shot. Has been a batting coach in and out of Australia’s setup since 2013, while also gaining head-coaching experience at Surrey between 2016 and 2020. Along with McDonald and Vaughan, has taken on more responsibility in recent months after Langer agreed to let go a little during the Twenty20 World Cup victory.