Simpson to work as cricket advisor with Rajasthan

Bob SImpson: can he help improve Rajasthan's fortunes? © Getty Images Enlarge

Bob Simpson, the former Australian captain, has been appointed as the cricket adviser of the Rajasthan Ranji Trophy side on a three-year contract. This is the latest appointment in what has been a hectic off-season for Indian domestic cricket with several teams undergoing a revamp with change of coaches, players and seeking out foreign expertise.

Simpson, who served as technical consultant to the Indian side in the late 1990s, joins Intikhab Alam, the former Pakistan legspinner, and Darren Holder, the Australian coach, as the foreigners involved with Ranji teams. He will be joined in the state set-up by Derek Simmons, the English coach, who will take charge of the junior side.

Lalit Modi, the president of the Rajasthan Cricket Association, confirmed Simpson's appointment. "His prior commitments prevented him from joining us as coach," he said to The Indian Express, "but he will be advisor to the state team and will work closely with the players and the coaches from time to time."

Simpson is expected to arrive in Rajasthan around end of October to hold a camp for the Ranji team. Rajasthan, who have struggled in the last few seasons in the Plate Group, are yet to name a coach for the forthcoming season and all indicators point to another big name being signed up.