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Former Irish international, and current head coach of Leinster Lightning Nigel Jones has been appointed Talent Pathway Coach (Northern Ireland) on a full-time basis for the next two years.
Jones, 41, played 34 times for Ireland between 2009-2012. He retired from international cricket in 2013 when he was appointed Cricket Development Officer for the NCU. In 2019, he was appointed Head Coach of Leinster Lightning and won six titles during his tenure.
The Talent Pathway Coach role will be based in Northern Ireland but is a national role. The role aims to continue to build on the Ireland Talent Pathway Programme (ITPP), focussed on creating sustained success and building towards competitive under-19 teams capable of success at the ICC Under 19 World Cup and will ensure Ireland continues to develop First Class and International men’s and women’s players able to compete on the world stage.
The role is part-funded by Sport Northern Ireland.
Albert van der Merwe, National Talent Pathway Manager at Cricket Ireland, said:
“For most Irish cricket fans, Nigel needs no introduction – and we are delighted he has accepted the role. Nigel has a track record of success and high standards both on and off the field, and we believe will bring his wealth of knowledge and experience to this important role.
“The role is a much-needed part of the talent pathway for Ireland, helping to ensure that pipeline of talent from schools, clubs and Provincial Unions feeds routinely into Cricket Ireland’s national age-group squads and National Academy.
“Amongst his duties, Nigel will assist and lead on the delivery of coaching programmes for Cricket Ireland’s talent development programme and will be involved in coaching some or all under-age national boys and girls youth teams – from under-15s to under-19s level.
“Having played with Nigel in the national side and having worked with him in the Irish coaching environment, I have no doubt he will bring a professional and ambitious approach to the role.
“We thank Cricket Leinster for working with us on creating a smooth transition plan, and look forward to Nigel starting with us later this month.”
