Richard McInnes resigns as Female High Performance Manager
And AIS National Head Coach (Women)
Cricket Australia today advised that Richard McInnes has resigned as CA’s Female High Performance Manager/AIS National Head Coach (Women).
Following seven years at CA in the roles of COE Senior Coach, Australian (Men’s) Team Performance Analyst and more recently in the Women’s high performance program, Richard has taken the decision to resign to spend some time with his young family and recharge after a very busy period of travel.
Richard has been instrumental in the rebuilding of the Commonwealth Bank Southern Stars following their 4th place at the 2009 ICC World Cup. During this period, the on-field highlights have included the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 win in the West Indies, reclaiming the Ashes in 2010 and the recently completed record-breaking series wins in India.
Commenting on his decision, McInnes said: “This decision was a difficult one, however with more travel on the horizon, I think it is the right time to step aside and begin planning the next phase of my career. During my time with the team we’ve won the ICC World Twenty20 and reclaimed the Ashes in 2010 after declaring behind in the one-off Test match. The Southern Stars are progressing well, ahead of this year’s defence of the ICC World Twenty20 crown.”
Pat Howard, CA’s General Manager Team Performance, thanked McInnes for his service and confirmed former Australia fast bowler Cathryn Fitzpatrick appointment as the Commonwealth Bank Southern Stars Head Coach for the coming 10 months. Howard said: “Richard’s contribution has resulted in the team being well placed to challenge for the ICC World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka and the ICC World Cup in India in the 2012-13 season. CA would like to thank Richard for this contribution and wish him well for the next steps in his career.
“As this is a very important phase for the Australian Women’s Team we have taken a decision to restructure the Head Coach role to solely focus on the preparation of the AIS and National squad and performance of the Australian Team. The high performance administrative functions will be covered by CA’s High Performance Manager.
“In terms of coaching, CA has appointed Cathryn Fitzpatrick in the restructured Head Coach role. Cathryn has been the Australian Team Assistant Coach since 2009-10 and has coached the Victorian Spirit Team since 2007-08. Cathryn will continue to coach the Victorian Spirit Team in 2012-13 season and CA would like to thank Cricket Victoria for their support of Cathryn to perform the Australian Women’s Team Head Coach role through this 10-month period. The Head Coach role will be advertised in March 2013,” Pat Howard said.