Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has been revealed as the new head coach of the Washington Freedom on a two-year deal.
Ponting's appointment to the job comes after Greg Shipperd stepped down from the role to focus on the Sydney Sixers and Cricket New South Wales Blues in Australia's domestic cricket.
The Tasmanian icon will have a tough season ahead of him as the Washington Freedom finished in third place last year, and they look to get better in the Major League Cricket (MLC) competition in the United States.
This isn't the first time Ponting has held a the head coaching role as he is currently the coach of the Delhi Capital in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has worked on the coaching staff for the Australia men's national team and Mumbai Indians in the past.
"I'm extremely excited to be joining the Washington Freedom in 2024," Ponting said in a media statement.
"Cricket is really on the rise in the US and I'm looking forward to being involved in Major League Cricket.
"I've been impressed by everyone involved at Washington Freedom, and, while it's a bit surreal to be replacing my mate Greg Shipperd, there's probably no one better to set up a successful franchise.
"I'm ready to build on his work as we look towards the coming season."
Michael Klinger, the CNSW Head of Male T20 Cricket and General Manager of Cricket at Washington Freedom, spoke about Ponting's appointment to the franchise.
"Ricky was one of the most recognised and revered cricketers in the world during his playing days and is now one of the most respected and coveted coaches on the global circuit," Klinger said.
"It is a huge coup, not only for Washington Freedom and the partnership with Cricket NSW, but more holistically for Major League Cricket and cricket in North America in general.
"Players want to play for Ricky. He has an incredible eye for talent and a skill in bringing the best out of those players.
"Ricky will work with some of our CNSW coaches and players who are part of the Washington Freedom set up and we look forward to building on the foundations for success from the first edition of MLC."
