New Zealand appoint former all-rounder Jacob Oram as new bowling coach

Jacob Oram of New Zealand appeals. (Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)

Jacob Oram has been appointed as the new bowling coach of New Zealand, replacing Shane Jurgensen, who vacated the position back in November 2023. The former Kiwi all-rounder will officially take up the role from October 7.

Oram has been given the role in a full-time capacity after supporting the team during the 1-1 draw on the Test tour to Bangladesh in late 2023, the 3-0 T20I series defeat versus trans-Tasman rivals Australia in February 2024, and the T20 World Cup earlier this year in June. The Blackcaps had been eliminated from the global event in the first round after suffering defeats against Afghanistan and the West Indies.

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While his stint as the interim bowling coach did not coincide with great results for the national team, there is no denying the immense experience and knowledge he brings to the table.

Oram played 33 Tests, 160 ODIs, and 36 T20Is for the Blackcaps before venturing into coaching in 2014. He started working as the bowling coach of the New Zealand A team before joining in the same capacity for the New Zealand women’s team. The Manawatu-born coached the White Ferns till the 2022 ODI World Cup at home, in March.

Oram recently served as the head coach of the Central Hinds and led the side to their first Super Smash final appearance since 2016. The 46-year-old also has the experience of working as the assistant coach of Northern Warriors in the Abu Dhabi T10 league and as bowling coach of Mumbai Indians Cape Town in the SA20.

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“I’m really excited to have the opportunity to be involved with the Blackcaps again. 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,” Oram was quoted as saying by Lokmat Times.

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“There’s a fresh new wave of talent coming through in the Blackcaps bowling ranks and I hope that I can share my knowledge and experience to help best prepare them for the challenges of international cricket,” he added.