Former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey, who was a part of England’s coaching staff in their successful ICC T20 World Cup campaign, has been confirmed as the new head coach of ‘The Hundred’ franchise Welsh Fire. Hussey replaces World Cup winning-coach Gary Kirsten, who left his role in December after a disastrous 2022 campaign that saw Welsh Fire lose each of their eight matches.

Hussey has been roped in ahead of the draft, in which Welsh Fire will get the first pick by virtue of finishing bottom last season.

“I’m really looking forward to getting started at Welsh Fire and being part of The Hundred,” Hussey said.

“From a distance it looks a fantastic competition to be involved in, one that’s attracting big crowds and getting lots of kids interested in the game.

“For my part, hopefully I can get help get things moving in the right direction on the pitch in Cardiff and give all of those fans who’ve been coming to watch something to really get excited about.”

Mark Wallace, Cricket Manager of Welsh Fire, said that he was ‘delighted’ to be appointing an individual of the caliber of Hussey as the side’s head coach.

“We’re thrilled to be able to appoint someone of the calibre of Mike. There are few better people around the world with the relevant expertise and knowledge of white-ball cricket to help take us forward.

“It’s really exciting to have him on board, and we look forward to working together to hopefully bring some on-field success to the team and our fans.”

The draft for the 2023 edition of The Hundred will take place on March 2.