Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine has been appointed as the head coach of the Adelaide Strikers before the 14th season of the Big Bash League (BBL). He will replace Jason Gillespie, who is now the red-ball coach of Pakistan’s men’s team as well. However, Paine played his last BBL game two years ago for the Hobart Hurricanes and took on the role of the assistant coach for the Strikers ahead of the 13th edition as well. He is currently in Darwin as NT Strike’s assistant coach in the Top End T20 series.

Paine was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au: “I am honoured and excited by the opportunity to coach such a well-established and strongly supported club, and I can’t wait for the start of BBL|14 in December. After spending time in Adelaide last year, I believe the Strikers team and the whole of South Australian cricket has huge potential and I’m looking forward to being part of taking it forward and winning a few trophies. Having been on the losing side when the Strikers defeated Hobart Hurricanes to claim their first title win in BBL|07, I can vouch for the fantastic atmosphere created by the fans at Adelaide Oval.”

However, he stepped down as Australia’s Test captain before the 2021-22 Ashes series due to a sexting saga. Having debuted in 2009, he played 35 Tests, 35 ODIs, and 12 T20Is as well. South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) CEO Charlie Hodgson opined that Tim Paine’s captaincy qualities and insights were significant in their campaign to last summer’s Challenger final.

“Tim’s leadership qualities, tactical insights and ability to foster a strong and united team environment within the Strikers’ playing group was a significant factor in the team’s success in reaching last summer’s Challenger final. We are also delighted with his clear vision to ensure the Strikers remain closely involved and strongly aligned to South Australia’s cricket development programs, and to further enhance the club’s standing among the state’s loyal and passionate cricket fans,” he told cricket.com.au.