Sydney: Justin Langer will coach Australia for three Twenty20s against Sri Lanka in February, officials said yesterday, further cementing his status as Darren Lehmann's eventual successor.
The former Test opener previously filled in for his ex-teammate on Australia's one-day tour of the West Indies this year, and has got the nod again to replace Lehmann who will be in India preparing for a four-Test series.Cricket Australia team performance manager Pat Howard said he was an easy pick.
"He did a terrific job in the Caribbean in June when he stepped in for Darren Lehmann during the successful tri-series and so is already familiar with the working environment around the Australia team," he said.
"He brings a wealth of experience as both a player and a coach and his record in helping the Perth Scorchers to a sustained level of success in the Big Bash League means he fits the bill in all ways."
Local reports said Langer beat a strong list of contenders to the role, including fellow Test greats Shane Warne, Jason Gillespie, Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey, who were all believed to be interested.
While Lehmann has no plans to step away from the job in the foreseeable future, he has already anointed Langer as his potential replacement.
