Fletcher takes South Africa role

The symbolic highpoint of Duncan Fletcher's time as England coach was winning the 2005 Ashes series

Buy this photo

Former England coach Duncan Fletcher is to join South Africa’s coaching staff as a consultant.

The appointment was made ahead of the Proteas’ back-to-back Test series against world champions Australia, with Fletcher joining the team for this week’s Test against Bangladesh.

A Cricket South Africa release read: “Former England coach Duncan Fletcher is to join the Proteas on a consultancy basis as the South African cricket team intensifies its build-up to the approaching Test series against Bangladesh and Australia.

“Fletcher will then travel with the Castle Test squad for the first Test against Australia at Perth in mid-December.”

Fletcher, a former Zimbabwe international, coached England from 1999 to 2007, including the Ashes victory over Australia in 2005.

He has a long history with South Africa, coaching Western Province and serving as a mentor to Proteas stars Jacques Kallis and Herschelle Gibbs.

Kallis recently revealed how Fletcher helped him out of a slump in form when he spotted a flaw in his technique which had plagued him on the recent tour of India.

“Duncan will spend three days with us before each of the two Tests against Bangladesh and will then spend 12 days with us in Australia ahead of the opening Test at Perth,” said national coach Mickey Arthur.

“He will add a great deal of value to our plans and preparations, particularly with his experience of having been a successful coach against Australia.

Fletcher has already acted as a mentor to South Africa's star all-rounder Jacques Kallis

Buy this photo

“I am a great believer in refreshing the squad, whether it be on the playing or management side.

“He will help us find another five percent to take us up to the next level.”

Fletcher is expected to fill a similar consultancy role next season when the Proteas' major assignments are the ICC Champions Trophy tournament and the home Test series against England.

CSA chief executive Gerald Majola said: “Cricket South Africa is determined to ensure that the Proteas are properly prepared for the Castle Test series against Bangladesh and the forthcoming tour to Australia.

“As part of this programme, we have asked Duncan Fletcher to assist the coaching staff. This move was mooted by the team management and says much for their maturity and eagerness to use the best preparation methods available.

“Duncan Fletcher is well-respected by the Proteas and his knowledge of Australian cricket will be of inestimable value.

“CSA is grateful that he has accepted this offer to assist and we look forward to his input.”

Fletcher has also held talks regarding a consultancy and advisory role at Hampshire.