Greatbatch appointed advisor to NZ selection panel

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has appointed former batsman Mark Greatbatch as an advisor to the national selection panel. Greatbatch, who also coaches the elite emerging players of the domestic side Central Districts, will monitor the progress of players in domestic cricket.

Glenn Turner, the current selection panel manager, said Greatbatch's inputs would help the selectors maintain a comprehensive view of players across the country.

"Mark has wide experience of playing and coaching at home and abroad," he said. "He will be getting around the grounds to keep an eye on the form of players coming through - his advice will be a huge asset to the selection process."

Greatbatch, who played for New Zealand between 1988 and 1996, has also had stints as coach and academy director at Warwickshire. He said he was was excited about the new role and was keen to help build depth in the top levels of the game.

"There's a lot of young, exciting talent coming through the state competitions right now," he said. "Part of my role will be to help identify and develop that talent so that there's a strong pool of players knocking hard on the door for national selection."

In a similar development, Central Districts coach Dermot Reeve will be joining the New Zealand squad as bowling coach for the two Twenty20 matches against West Indies, the first of which will be played on Friday.

Team coach Andy Moles said Reeve's reputation for flair and innovation, coupled with his experience in international limited-overs competitions, would add strength to the team. "Dermot's experience as a coach and as a top level bowler will bring extra depth and focus to our preparation for these games," said Moles. "He is a good example of us bringing in talented coaches to broaden and stimulate new thinking with our players."

Reeve played for England as an allrounder between 1991 and 1996, including three Tests - all against New Zealand - and 29 one day internationals.

He has experience in New Zealand's domestic circuit as well after being appointed Central Districts coach in July this year. The team is currently at the top of the State Championship rankings at the halfway point of the 2008-09 season.