Australia have appointed Andrew McDonald as their new head coach, with the 40-year-old confirmed as Justin Langer 's replacement.
McDonald has been part of Australia's coaching staff since 2019 and acted as interim coach for their recent tour of Pakistan. The former Test all-rounder has put pen to paper on a four-year deal which sees him take charge of Australia in all formats.
"The journey so far has been particularly pleasing, and I am honoured to be given this incredible opportunity for what is an exciting period ahead," McDonald said. "The success of the World Cup, the Ashes Series and now Pakistan has been testament to the hard work and leadership of Justin, Pat [Cummins] and Aaron [Finch] along with the players and the support staff.
"My plan is to build on the growth, depth and experience of the squad while working collectively with the group and across the game. There are many challenges in the short-term which I know excites the leadership group, the players and the staff. I'd also like to thank my family for their support."
Langer sensationally quit as Australia coach following the Ashes, rejecting a short-term contract extension. In his resignation letter, having cited a lack of support from senior players, support staff and the board as the reason behind his decision.
Following the recent Pakistan tour, Test captain Pat Cummins gave McDonald his full backing, saying: "He's fantastic. Very diligent, very thorough, strategic, very organised. He's a huge part of this tour win... and all the support staff.
"It's not just the players that walk out, we have got a squad of 30-odd people working so hard. He has been an important part. It's not my place to appoint the coach, but he has been fantastic."
And Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley confirmed McDonald's success in Pakistan helped convince them he was the right man for the job. "Andrew has already shown he is an outstanding Head Coach and the vision he outlined for the role during the appointment process was both impressive and exciting, making him our clear choice," Hockley said.
"We are proud of the way the team played and the respect shown throughout the tour of Pakistan under the leadership of Andrew, Pat and Aaron, and really pleased Andrew is taking on the role permanently."
