Tim Paine‘s rapid ascent in the coaching ranks has reached a new milestone with his appointment as the head coach of the Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season. The former Australia Test captain and wicketkeeper signed a two-year contract, taking over the role previously held by Jason Gillespie.
A New Chapter for Paine
Paine’s transition from player to coach has been swift. Just under two years have passed since he played his final game in the KFC BBL with the Hobart Hurricanes. Following his retirement, he served as an assistant coach to Gillespie at the Strikers, where he made a notable impact during the last season.
“I am honoured and excited by the opportunity to coach such a well-established and strongly supported club,” Paine stated. He expressed eagerness for the start of BBL|14 in December, highlighting the potential he sees in the Strikers and South Australian cricket as a whole.
Coaching Experience and Vision
The 39-year-old has accumulated valuable coaching experience, currently working as an assistant coach for NT Strike in the Top End T20 Series. He also served as Adam Voges’ deputy during the Australia A series against New Zealand and contributed as a mentor to the national under-19s program. His leadership qualities and tactical insights were instrumental in the Strikers’ late-season charge last summer, which saw them reach the Challenger final.
Paine’s vision for the club includes close collaboration with South Australia’s pathways and development programs. “I believe we have an immensely talented and versatile squad which we will finalize over the next few weeks,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to building a strong team environment.
Competitive Landscape
The decision to appoint Paine comes after a thorough recruitment process, where he impressed the South Australia Cricket Association (SACA) hierarchy with his strategic vision for the club. SACA CEO Charlie Hodgson noted, “Tim’s leadership qualities, tactical insights, and ability to foster a strong and united team environment within the Strikers’ playing group was a significant factor in the team’s success.”
Paine’s appointment follows a period of transition for the Strikers, who have not reached the championship decider since winning the title in BBL|07 under Gillespie’s guidance. The team has made the playoffs in four of the last six seasons but aims to reclaim its status as a title contender.
Duty Awaits
As Paine prepares for his first season as head coach, he will work alongside assistant coaches, including dual Weber WBBL title-winning coach Luke Williams. The Strikers will look to build on their momentum from the previous season, where they rebounded from a slow start to secure five consecutive wins before their playoff exit.
Paine’s first official duty as head coach will be attending the upcoming player draft with Strikers captain Matt Short. The club holds multiple picks in the draft, having traded fast bowler Wes Agar to Sydney Thunder, positioning themselves for a competitive BBL|14 season.
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