On Friday, former Australia spinner Nathan Hauritz was chosen as Ireland’s new spin bowling coach.

In his role with Ireland, he will work with both the men’s and women’s national teams, as well as the pathway system, according to a release from Cricket Ireland.

Subject to obtaining a work permit, Hauritz will join the Irish set up in August.

“The chance was too wonderful to pass up,” Hauritz remarked of his new position.

“I enjoy discussing all aspects of spin bowling, and the opportunity to do so in an international setting while traveling the world is too good to pass up.”

“As a coach, I’m particularly interested in the tactical and mental aspects of spin bowling. When you play at the highest level of cricket, your game is normally in good shape, but it’s how you perform on the day that requires the greatest improvement.”

“My background and expertise, I believe, will enable me to communicate with and promote the development of our current spinner groups. It’s a really exciting time to be involved in Irish cricket,” he continued.

Hauritz, 40-year-old off-spinner, played for Australia from 2002 to 2011, appearing in 17 Tests, 58 ODIs, and three T20Is while taking 128 wickets across all formats.

In first-class cricket, Hauritz represented Queensland and New South Wales, as well as the Brisbane Heat, Sydney Thunder, and Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League.

After retiring, Hauritz went into coaching and has been the spin bowling coach for the Queensland Fire and Brisbane Heat since 2020.

“We’re happy Nathan will be joining the high-performance team, and we’re looking forward to bringing him over here to work with our spin groups,” said Richard Holdsworth, Cricket Ireland’s High-Performance Director.

“Not only will Nathan’s abilities and expertise benefit our spinners in both the men’s and women’s squads,” he said, “but he’ll also be looking at the next generation coming through the pathway system.”