Ricky Ponting joins Hobart Hurricanes as head of strategy

The Delhi Capitals head coach and former Australia captain will assist the Hurricanes with coaching appointments, list management, strategy and culture on a part-time basis

Ricky Ponting has joined the Hobart Hurricanes set-up, taking on the position of head of strategy on a three-year deal.

The 47-year-old, who currently serves as head coach of Delhi Capitals in the IPL, will assist the Hurricanes with coaching appointments, list management, strategy and culture on a part-time basis while continuing to work as a commentator across the Big Bash.

Hobart Hurricanes are yet to win a BBL title – one of only two sides alongside Melbourne Stars in that position – and haven’t reached the final since BBL07, although they did finish top of the regular season table in BBL08. Last season, they finished in fifth position before losing to Adelaide Strikers in the Eliminator.

Ponting’s first task in his new role will be to help Hobart appoint a new head coach following Adam Griffith’s departure at the end of last season.

^{Ricky Ponting played for Hobart Hurricanes in the early seasons of the Big Bash [Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images]}

Commenting on linking up with the Hurricanes, the former Australia captain said: "The competition and the game itself have changed enormously from when I played for the Hurricanes back in BBL01 and BBL02, and I know so much more about the nuances of the T20 game now than I did then.

"I’m passionate about the progression of Tasmanian and Australian cricket across all forms of the game, so to be asked to take on such a critical role for the Hurricanes is really special.

"I’m looking forward to getting to work and securing the best coach for what we need then building a plan for the team to execute next season.

"With a few tweaks in a couple of key areas, I believe the Hurricanes have the foundations to win our first BBL trophy."

Cricket Tasmania CEO, Dominic Baker, added: "To be honest, I think Ricky probably just said 'yes' as he was sick of me hassling him to come and join us. But really, it is such a win for not only the Hurricanes and Tasmanian cricket, but for the league itself.

"In my mind, Ricky is undoubtedly the best T20 strategist in the world, and as a proud Tasmanian, we are thrilled to have him overseeing the direction of Tasmania’s team for at least the next three seasons."