McGrath signs up to boost NSW's bowlers

Glenn McGrath's sudden return to playing will soon include some coaching after he agreed to help out New South Wales' bowlers during the summer. McGrath was planning a holiday when he was a last-minute addition for Delhi in the Champions League and, following some training sessions after landing in India, he picked up 2 for 20 as his side overcame Wayamba on Sunday.

McGrath, who retired from internationals after the 2007 World Cup win, was staying in the same hotel as his former New South Wales team-mates and ended up with another role. ''Glenn will be working with the boys,'' the coach Matthew Mott told the Sydney Morning Herald. ''He's pretty excited by some of the young guys coming through, Josh Hazlewood and those sort of guys. Just that simple approach he has to bowling, and the respect he obviously has from everyone in the game, is going to be invaluable to us."

After a 124-Test career, McGrath stepped down with 563 wickets and waved goodbye in the final Ashes contest of 2006-07. He had an uncomplicated yet wildly successful method and Mott said he had a great deal to pass on.

"He always had a lot of belief in his ability and if he can transfer that to our players, it'll be awesome," Mott said. "He wants to get involved for the first time on a regular basis and really help us out and that's going to be great for us. For that kind of role, you couldn't really pick anyone you'd rather have.''

After not playing a game in the IPL, McGrath had done no bowling until arriving in Delhi but picked things up instantly. "I could always land the ball pretty well, but I wasn't quick and that's something I'd rather be," he said. "But it's good to be out here playing and to be a part of a pretty good win.''

The performance left New South Wales hoping they don't have to run into him in the latter stages of the competition. ''We just sat down and marvelled at his ability to come in and consistently put the ball on the same spot,'' Mott said. ''It was amazing."