Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a significant step forward in his post-playing career, being appointed as the head coach of Australia A for three major series in the second half of 2025. Currently holding the reins as assistant coach at Adelaide Strikers, Paine’s coaching credentials continue to strengthen, as he prepares to lead Australia’s second-string men’s team across formats against formidable opposition.
Paine’s new role with Australia A marks a pivotal moment in his transition from international wicketkeeper to a key figure in Australian cricket’s coaching ranks. His consultancy responsibilities will stretch across both men’s and women’s programs, striking a balance with his commitments at the domestic level.
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Australia A Duties: A Packed Calendar
Tim Paine’s appointment sees him overseeing three crucial assignments for Australia A this year. His first task begins in July, when he leads the side in Darwin for a home series against Sri Lanka A, comprising three 50-over fixtures and two four-day contests. This series is not only crucial for emerging Australian players but also significant for Paine’s growth as a tactician.
Following the Darwin matches, Paine will guide the Australia A squad on a demanding tour of India in September and October. This tour will test his coaching adaptability, as the squad prepares for both white-ball and red-ball challenges in subcontinental conditions. The year concludes with Paine coaching Australia A in a four-day clash against the England Lions, expected to be scheduled for late October or early November.
Building on Past Experience
Paine’s familiarity with the Australia A environment is no coincidence. His involvement with development teams dates back several years, having previously served as an assistant under respected figures such as Adam Voges and Lachlan Stevens. His most recent stint saw him leading the Prime Minister’s XI against India in Canberra, further polishing his credentials as a head coach in high-profile fixtures.
“It’s an exciting opportunity to work with Australia A and continue developing the next wave of Australian talent,” Paine has said in prior coaching stints, signaling his intent to play a formative role in shaping Australia’s cricketing future.
With Lachlan Stevens reportedly departing his role at Cricket Australia, Paine will now shoulder added responsibility. Fortunately, he will have experienced support alongside him, including national pace bowling coach Adam Griffith, Australian women’s assistant Scott Prestwidge, and Northern Territory Cricket’s Trent Keep.
Coaching Reshuffle Across the Board
Paine’s appointment coincides with several coaching adjustments across Australian cricket. Adam Griffith, temporarily stepping in as Australia’s bowling coach during the West Indies Tests, will return to assist Paine during the Sri Lanka A series. Meanwhile, James Franklin, the former New Zealand left-arm seamer, will link up with the national side for their T20I series in the Caribbean, adding fresh expertise.
Matthew Wade, Paine’s former teammate and fellow wicketkeeper-batter, will also lend his experience by joining the coaching group for Australia’s T20Is in the Caribbean, having previously been part of the coaching setup against Pakistan last summer.
Zanden Jeh’s Surprise Selection
One of the standout narratives from the Australia A squad announcement is the inclusion of uncontracted Queensland left-arm spinner Zanden Jeh. With established spinners Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli unavailable due to County cricket commitments, Jeh’s call-up reflects Cricket Australia’s pressing need to unearth new spin options.
Jeh, who has yet to debut in first-class cricket, has modest second XI statistics—11 wickets at 35—but recently impressed with a five-wicket haul against ACT. His potential development has been fast-tracked with selection not only for the Sri Lanka series but also for the upcoming MRF Academy stint in Chennai from July 31 to August 13. There, Jeh will train alongside fellow emerging prospects such as Jason Sangha, Liam Scott, Ollie Peake, and Campbell Kellaway.
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FAQs
What role has Tim Paine been appointed to with Australia A?
Tim Paine has been appointed as head coach of Australia A for three upcoming series in 2024, including matches against Sri Lanka A, a tour of India, and a game against the England Lions.
Will Tim Paine continue his domestic coaching duties?
Yes, Paine will balance his Australia A commitments with his role as an assistant coach at Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League.
Which teams will Australia A face under Paine’s leadership?
Australia A will play Sri Lanka A in Darwin, tour India for white and red-ball matches, and later take on the England Lions in a four-day fixture.
Who will assist Tim Paine during these series?
Paine will be supported by Adam Griffith (national pace bowling coach), Scott Prestwidge (women’s team assistant), and Trent Keep (Northern Territory Cricket).
Why was Zanden Jeh selected for Australia A?
With senior spinners unavailable, Jeh was chosen for his recent form and potential, despite limited experience, to address Australia’s need for more left-arm orthodox spin options.
