Sweden Cricket Federation appointed former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes as the head coach of the Sweden Cricket and will be joining after the 13th season of Indian Premier League (IPL 2020).
“Swedish Cricket Federation to invest in junior cricket, high performance & growth through the appointment of South African cricket great, Jonty Rhodes as head coach,” Sweden Cricket Federation said in a statement.
South African superstar cricketer Jonty Rhodes will be relocating to Sweden to share his expertise and experience with the fast-growing Swedish cricket family. Rhodes, who spent more than 10 years playing for the South African national team is regarded as one of the greatest fielders to ever play the game.
“I am really excited to relocate to Sweden with my family and work together with the Swedish Cricket community. This opportunity has come at a perfect time and I am grateful to be able to invest my energies in a completely new environment. I can’t wait to get started,” said Jonty, who is currently stationed in Dubai for the Indian Premier League as the fielding coach of Kings XI Punjab.
Cricket is the second-fastest growing sport in Sweden seeing a 300% increase in participation over the past 2 years. The Swedish Cricket Federation are implementing strategies for cricket growth and development whilst also introducing the game to a diverse cross-section of Swedish inhabitants.
“Our growth targets and key areas are directed toward junior cricket and high performance. Jonty will play a pivotal role in lifting our players as well as assisting in securing quality coaching framework for the future sustainability of the game. I am delighted to have him as part of our small and ambitious team,” says Benn Harradine, Sports Director of Swedish Cricket Federation.
“Jonty’s appointment comes with great anticipation for the Swedish Cricket Federation. Our goals are to provide a transparent and sustainable platform for our young and talented players and present Sweden as a highly performing competitor within the international arena. Not only has Jonty been one of the greatest cricketers ever to play, his willingness to align with our vision in Sweden as head coach is going to be incredibly valuable for our development moving forward. Both myself and the board are thrilled to have Jonty as a valued team member of SCF,” says Zalmay Daftani, chairman of the board of Swedish Cricket Federation.
Rhodes will begin his appointment in Sweden mid-November 2020, where he will base in Stockholm at the Swedish Cricket Federation headquarters in Idrottens Hus.
