Matthew Mott,Meg Lanning and Rachael Haynes bask in the aftermath of their World Cup victory in Christchurch earlier this year.Credit:Getty Images
While Mott has benefited from Australia’s world-leading professional women’s system,which has left all other nations floundering in their wake,his combination of strong messages,an unashamedly attacking style of play and a good deal of bonhomie has resonated. He also interviewed for the Australia men’s job that ultimately went to Andrew McDonald.
His choice as coach of England’s white-ball side,dovetailing withTest coach McCullum,marks a second bold decision by the new supremo Rob Key,who took significant store in both the results and style of play followed by Australia’s women under Mott’s guidance.
Mott said:“The on-field success is well documented,but it’s the lifelong friendships that I’ve formed that resonate most with me. I am very proud to have been part of a sport that has been able to endure the last couple of years and come through it with an even brighter future.
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“There is never a perfect time to leave such a wonderful environment,but this opportunity is one that excites me very much. My family has a strong connection and love of the UK,having spent several summers over there and we are excited for our next family adventure.”
Though Mott’s exit will leave a hole in the women’s set-up,the established captaincy of Meg Lanning,her articulate deputy Rachael Haynes and a seasoned core of senior players will afford plenty of continuity. The highly regarded senior assistant Shelley Nitschke will take the reins for the looming tour of Ireland and the Commonwealth Games to follow.