Melbourne, Jun 20 (UNI) Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine has been appointed as the head coach of the Australia A men's team for the upcoming season, Cricket Australia announced on Friday.

Paine’s coaching tenure will begin with a home series against Sri Lanka A, scheduled to take place in Darwin from July 4. This marks the 39-year-old’s first major assignment in a coaching capacity since his retirement from professional cricket.

Having led Australia in 23 Tests between 2018 and 2021, Paine is widely credited for stabilising the national side during a challenging transition period following the ball-tampering scandal. His appointment to the Australia A setup is seen as a key move in nurturing the next generation of Test cricketers.

Australia A will play two four-day matches and three 50-over games against the visiting Sri Lanka A side, as part of the developmental pathway for future international prospects.

UNI BDN GNK