Monday 9 June 2014 09:24, UK
Former England all-rounder Dimitri Mascarenhas has been appointed head coach of New Zealand's Otago province on a two-year contract.
Mascarenhas, 36, has coaching experience with his former county Hampshire, Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League and the Hobart Hurricanes in Australia's Big Bash League.
But this is his first head coaching appointment.
Mascarenhas played 34 one-day internationals for England across an 18-year career spanning more than 10,000 runs and 900 wickets in all forms of cricket.
He played for two years as Otago's overseas professional, including at the 2009 Champions League.
We are delighted to have secured someone of Dimi's experience in the game at the top level and it is particularly comforting to know he is very familiar with our players, environment and facilities.
Otago Cricket CEO Ross Dykes told the club's website: "We are delighted to have secured someone of Dimi's experience in the game at the top level and it is particularly comforting to know he is very familiar with our players, environment and facilities.
"Dimi's tactical awareness and his ability to build relationships set him apart from a very strong field of candidates. His proven ability to work with bowlers and his positive approach to the game make him an ideal coach to partner with Nathan King and take the Volts to the next level.
"Dimi and Nathan have very compatible skills and this was another compelling factor in the decision.
"It is a huge plus that most of our current squad know and respect Dimi - just as he knows them and their strengths and weaknesses."
Mascarenhas added: "I am really excited about the opportunity to be a Head Coach and am delighted that it is with Otago.
"I really enjoyed my time playing there and believe that the culture within that environment is well suited to my way of doing things. Otago have fashioned a fantastic record over recent seasons and I look forward to working with the players, Nathan and the rest of the staff to ensure trophies continue to be won by the Volts."
