Jonty Rhodes named head coach of Sweden
The Swedish Cricket Federation confirmed on Thursday (September 10) it has appointed former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes as the head coach of their national team.
BREAKING NEWS!
Swedish Cricket Federation to invest in junior cricket, high performance & growth through the appointment of South African cricket great, Jonty Rhodes as head coach.
Read more here: https://t.co/FNZvpwyz4k pic.twitter.com/5qhRk00VUw— Cricket Sweden ? (@Swedish_Cricket) September 10, 2020
Why Jonty?
Jonty’s appointment comes as part of the Federation’s effort to groom cricketers at the junior level, an official statement said. Over the last two years, cricket in Sweden has witnessed exponential growth, with participation sky-rocketing by 300%.
”I am really excited to relocate to Sweden with my family and work together with the Swedish Cricket community. This opportunity has come at a perfect time and I am grateful to be able to invest my energies in a completely new environment. I can’t wait to get started,” said Jonty about his new role.
One of the greatest fielders in cricket history, Jonty naturally took to coaching after retirement. An avid traveller, he had several coaching stints in Kenya, South Africa, Sri Lanka. Jonty has been particularly focussed on training young minds, recently offering advice to young cricketers in Nepal. He has also been an integral part of the IPL for many years, initially serving as the fielding coach of Mumbai Indians and now coaching Kings XI Punjab in the 2020 edition.
“Our growth targets and key areas are directed toward junior cricket and high performance. Jonty will play a pivotal role in lifting our players as well as assisting in securing quality coaching framework for the future sustainability of the game. I am delighted to have him as part of our small and ambitious team,” said Benn Harradine, sports director of the Swedish Cricket Federation.
Jonty is currently in the UAE as part of KXIP’s preparations ahead of IPL 2020 starting September 19.
