W Cup winning Australian to revamp NZ

Former Australian national coach John Buchanan, who guided the side to three World Cups, was confirmed Friday as New Zealand's new director of cricket.

His brief is to design the blueprint for a consistent coaching philosophy across the country, implement a talent identification programme and oversee the selection panel.

"John's appointment is an exciting one for New Zealand Cricket. He has a great cricketing pedigree and will provide outstanding leadership as NZC look to move forward," New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan said.

During Buchanan's eight years at the helm of the Australian side from 1999-2007, they won three World Cup titles, and won a record 16 consecutive Test and 23 consecutive ODI World Cup matches. The 58-year-old Queenslander said he was proud to take up a "challenging role" in New Zealand. "New Zealand Cricket has a proud history and it is a true honour to be given the responsibility," he said.

"I want to be part of the next successful era and am committed to building sustainable high performance for New Zealand Cricket."

Buchanan most recently acted as a consultant to England as they prepared for their successful Ashes series against Australia.

WELLINGTON, AFP