Arthur to be SA’s new coach

Mickey Arthur, a low-profile coach, is all set to replace Ray Jennings as the coach of the national South African team. Jennings’s six-month contract expires today, after the completion of the final ODI against West Indies in Trinidad.

Arthur is a surprise selection for the job, especially because his name didn’t appear among the prominent names that were being discussed for the spot, those of Tom Moody, Geoff Marsh, Rod Marsh and Steve Rixon.

Arthur, aged only 37, retired from first-class cricket four years ago, ending a career during which he featured for Free State, Griqualand West and South Africa A. His record however is modest at best, a batting average of 33.45.

Following his retirement, Arthur took up a job with Griquas, before settling with his current one as the head coach of the Eastern Cape Warriors.