Ricky Ponting, an Australian cricket icon, will succeed countryman and Sydney Sixers coach Greg Shipperd in the post. Ponting has signed a two-year deal with Washington Freedom ahead of Major League Cricket’s second season in the United States.
In what may be a significant boost to the American T20 league Major League Cricket, famed former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has signed on as the new head coach for the Washington Freedom, ahead of the league’s second season. Ponting has signed a two-year contract with the franchise, succeeding countryman and Sydney Sixers coach Greg Shipperd in the position.
Shipperd has left the position to concentrate on his responsibilities with the Sydney Sixers and Cricket New South Wales Blues in Australia’s domestic circuit.
Stating that cricket is “really on the rise in the US”, Ponting said in a statement: “I’m looking forward to being involved in Major League Cricket. I’ve been impressed by everyone involved at Washington Freedom, and, while it’s a bit surreal to be replacing my mate Greg Shipperd, there’s probably no one better to set up a successful franchise. I’m ready to build on his work as we look towards the coming season.”
Ponting, who presently coaches the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, said last week that he was in talks to join Washington but needed to sort out practicalities.
According to Michael Klinger, the general manager of cricket at Washington Freedom, Ponting’s appointment will have a significant impact on the organisation and cricket in the United States. Klinger, who was named head coach of the Gujarat Giants for the upcoming Women’s Premier League season, said: “Ricky was one of the most recognised and revered cricketers in the world during his playing days and is now one of the most respected and coveted coaches on the global circuit.”
