Former England cricketer and captain Andrew Strauss insists appointing an Australian coach of England is an entirely feasible option for this summer's Ashes
Andrew Strauss and Jason Gillespie
London: Andrew Strauss insists appointing an Australian coach of England is an entirely feasible option for this summer's Ashes.
Andrew Strauss and Jason Gillespie
Former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie, currently in charge of Yorkshire whom he led to the LV= County Championship title last year, has emerged as a leading contender to succeed the sacked Peter Moores.
New England and Wales Cricket Board director Strauss described Gillespie as "one of the candidates" during a marathon round of interviews at Lord's on Tuesday.
Strauss also confirmed no way back for Kevin Pietersen, citing a "massive trust issue" for various reasons which still linger as a result of the controversial batsman's previous difficulties with both his former captain and his employers.
As for the identity of the new coach — Strauss hopes to make an appointment in time for the start of the Ashes in July — he sees Australian birth as no impediment.
"We've had Australian support staff — David Saker as bowling coach, Troy Cooley in the past," he said.
"When people are in the team environment, they're professional."
The difference with Gillespie, of course, is that as well as being born in Sydney he also took 259 wickets in 71 Tests for his country, including in five Ashes series.
No direct approach
Meanwhile, Gillespie has yet to hear from the England and Wales Cricket Board whether the governing body wants to speak to him about the vacant position of national coach.
Yorkshire director of cricket Martyn Moxon has confirmed the county champions have had no direct approach from England asking permission to contact their coach about the job which became available when Peter Moores was sacked four days ago.
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