Craig Cumming appointed Otago Sparks coach

Former New Zealand batter Craig Cumming has been appointed as the head coach of the Otago Sparks, it was announced on Thursday (August 20). He will replace Nathan King, who stepped down in July, after his second three-year stint with the side.

"I am really excited about being given the opportunity to be the head coach of the Otago Sparks,” said the 44-year-old. "The game of cricket and coaching is something I am very passionate about and I can’t wait to work alongside all the members of the Sparks squad to help them develop as individuals, cricketers and as a team."

Cumming, former Otago Volts player, is a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Level 3 qualified coach and has coached both men and women in Otago Cricket pathway’s program for the last five years. He played 11 Tests and 13 ODIs for New Zealand, and also played 95 First-Class matches, 105 List-A matches and 45 T20s. After retiring from the game in 2012, he started working as a broadcaster covering domestic and international games.

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“Craig has a significant history of involvement in Otago Cricket since the 1990’s as a player, administrator and most recently as a coach. His many experiences in the game will benefit the Otago Sparks greatly,” said Simon Forde, manager performance and talent.

“I am very confident the playing group will enjoy his approach to the game and learn a great deal as a result. Our main driver is the personal development of our players towards representing the White Ferns and I’m fully confident that Craig with the support of quality support staff will exceed those objectives.”

Cumming will take charge of the Sparks from September 1 and the club will announce his support staff in due course.