Former New Zealand allrounder Jacob Oram has been named the bowling coach of the men’s cricket team. He has fcame in place which was previously left vacant by Shane Jurgensen in November 2023. Oram will officially take over the reins from October 7. However, Oram has become permanent in his post after supporting the team in the 1-1 series draw during the Test tour to Bangladesh in late 2023 as well, and the 3-0 T20I series defeat against Australia in February 2024 as well.
He was also with the team during the Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this June where New Zealand crashed out in the group stages as well. The veteran started his coaching career in 2014 when he was appointed the bowling coach of New Zealand A. He took over the reins in the same role for the New Zealand Women’s cricket team from 2018 until the Women’s ODI World Cup held at home, in March 2022 as well.
Oram has also coached in different franchises across many tournaments. He was the head coach of the Central Hinds in the Super Smash, the assistant coach of the Northern Warriors in the T10 league and the bowling coach of MI Cape Town in the SA20 as well. Having played for New Zealand across 33 Tests, 160 ODIs and 36 T20Is during his 11-year playing career, Oram said that he hopes he can pass on his knowledge to the fresh new faces.
“I’m really excited to have the opportunity to be involved with the Black Caps again,” he said. “To be back involved with a team that means so much to me and has been a big part of my life is a real honour. The recent opportunities I’ve had have been a great insight into where this team is going and I’m excited to continue that work in the coming seasons. There’s a fresh new wave of talent coming through in the Black Caps bowling ranks and I hope that I can share my knowledge and experience to help best prepare them for the challenges of international cricket.”
However, Head Coach Gary Stead too was delighted with Oram joining the ranks of the New Zealand coaching staff as well.
“Jake’s a great operator,” said Stead. “His career as a player and his experiences as a coach speak for themselves. He brings a deep understanding of the international game, but also experience in franchise cricket which will be worthwhile in understanding the modern player and the changing landscape of the modern game. It’s a really exciting opportunity for him and we’re looking forward to having him join the group full-time.”
