Buchanan set for NZ Cricket role

John Buchanan talks to Ricky Ponting during the 2005 season. Photo / Getty Images

Former Australia cricket coach John Buchanan has been named New Zealand Cricket's new director of cricket.

The 58-year-old was confirmed in the role today and will start at New Zealand Cricket in May.

He will be the architect of the new high performance programme, establish 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," said New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan.

Buchanan, who was at the helm of the Australian side for eight years during which time they won three World Cup titles and at one stage won a record 16 test matches in a row, said he was proud to accept the position.

"It's an honour to be appointed to this challenging role. It is a wonderful opportunity to build on the work that has been done," said Buchanan.

"New Zealand Cricket has a proud history and is a true honour to be given the responsibility. I want to be part of the next successful era and am committed to building sustainable high performance for New Zealand Cricket."

Since retiring in 2007 the Queenslander he has been a coaching ambassador in Australia, he had a stint as coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders before he was sacked in June 2009 and more recently acted as a consultant to England as they prepared for the Ashes series against Australia.

- NZPA