Sydney, 04 September (H.S.): Veteran Australian fast bowler Peter Siddle will take charge as New South Wales’ bowling coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season, while Johan Botha will work with the team as a spin consultant. The changes have been made ahead of Brad Haddin’s first season as head coach.

The 41-year-old Siddle will continue to be part of the Melbourne Stars squad in the Big Bash League but will work with New South Wales throughout all Sheffield Shield fixtures. He will join Haddin’s coaching staff alongside Peter Forrest and Daniel Smith.

Siddle has spent most of his state-level career representing Victoria, in addition to playing three seasons for Tasmania.

In a statement issued by New South Wales, Siddle said, “It is incredibly exciting to be joining the NSW Blues this season. I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to work with and guide this talented group of players. It’s going to be a hugely important summer ahead, and I can’t wait to get stuck into it.”

Botha, who stepped down as Queensland coach earlier this year, will initially work with the team on an interim basis.

Head coach Brad Haddin said, “The addition of Peter and Johan to the Blues demonstrates our commitment to having high-quality people around the team. Peter brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, and he is also an example of the kind of cricketer we want in our team.”

He added, “We are confident that we have put together a balanced and strong coaching group ahead of an exciting season for the Blues.”

New South Wales’ pace-bowling department also features three of Australia’s leading fast bowlers — Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood — although their international commitments mean they make only limited appearances in state cricket. The team also has options in Liam Hatcher, emerging pacer Ryan Hadley, all-rounder Jack Edwards, experienced Sean Abbott and left-arm fast bowler Ben Dwarshuis.

Liam Hatcher is currently part of the Australia A squad touring India. In the spin department, Joel Davies will travel with the ODI squad for the tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, while Tanveer Sangha is part of Australia A’s limited-overs leg of the India tour.

New South Wales will begin its season with a One-Day Cup fixture against Queensland on September 22. The team’s first Sheffield Shield match will be against Tasmania from October 8.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar