New Zealander John Bracewell has been appointed as Cricket Ireland's new head coach, replacing Phil Simmons who left last month.
The vastly experienced New Zealander has a track record of success with both New Zealand and in English domestic cricket and will take charge of the side after the upcoming one-day clash with England on 8 May in Malahide.
The 57-year-old played 41 Tests and 53 ODIs for New Zealand and also coached the Black Caps in 41 Tests and 106 ODI's over five years.
During his tenure the Black Caps qualified for three semi-finals in ICC global events, while he also won six trophies with Gloucestershire.
"He improved my game tremendously when I worked with him at Gloucestershire." - William Porterfield
Cricket Ireland believe that Bracewell will prove the perfect appointment to continue the excellent work that Simmons and predecssor Adrian Birrell carried out over the past decade and is seen as the ideal man to deliver the target of Test cricket for Ireland by 2019.
Bracewell has signed a deal that runs until the end of 2017 which coincides with the completion of the ICC Intercontinental Cup, which is now the pathway event to the new Test Challenge.
Speaking about his appointment, Bracewell said: “I am delighted to accept the position as Cricket Ireland's head coach. There is nothing I enjoy more than fighting for a cause, and in cricket terms there is none better than obtaining test status.
"Already Ireland have achieved tremendous international results given its financial resources and has gained respect at international tournaments, to the point where they are no longer regarded as a banana skin match but true qualifying contenders.
“I recently presented at the Irish coaching conference and listened to the passion not only for the game but for hard work coming from current and former players, and the parallels with my New Zealand cricket journey really resonated with me."
Ireland captain William Porterfield said: "It's a fantastic appointment for Irish cricket. His vast experience in all formats of the game, both internationally and domestically, will stand us in great stead, especially as we build towards our goal of Test cricket.
"He improved my game tremendously when I worked with him at Gloucestershire, and I'm certain he will fit in really well in Ireland where the squad will relish the opportunity to work with him."
Ireland assistant coach and Performance Analyst Peter Johnston will lead the Ireland coaching team for the Royal London One-Day International against England next week with Bracewell at the game in an observation capacity.
Bracewell's first match in charge will be the home InterContinental Cup game against the UAE starting on 2 June.
