Waqar could be Australia’s bowling coach

Former Pakistan captain interviewed to replace McDermott.

Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has been interviewed for the position of Australia’s bowling coach as the country’s cricket board looks to find Craig McDermott’s replacement, according to ESPNcricinfo.

The former Pakistan fast-bowler, who is based in Sydney and coached Pakistan’s national team for two years, is understood to have spoken to Cricket Australia’s team performance manager Pat Howard about the position that was unexpectedly left vacant by McDermott at the conclusion of the West Indies series.

Waqar, who quit his post with the Pakistan team due to ‘personal and health reasons’, is now understood to be refreshed after spending 10 months off. His coaching history has included numerous short-term consultancy roles, including with the England and Wales Cricket Board academy on a tour to India, while he has worked with New South Wales since first moving with his family to Sydney in 2005.

Andy Bichel, a part-time member of the selection panel, said practical use of cricketing knowledge was a requirement and praised McDermott for his performance.

“‘With so many young guys coming through the system, I think you need someone who has played international cricket,” Bichel told the Age  last month. “Someone who can teach them the stuff in the middle more than the technical stuff, how to get people. That was one of the great bonuses with Craig.’’

Published in The Express Tribune, June 6^th, 2012.