David Saker named Victoria coach

England's outgoing bowling coach David Saker has been appointed coach of Victoria for the next three seasons. Saker has replaced the long-serving Greg Shipperd, who had led the Bushrangers since the death of then coach David Hookes in January 2004 but was moved on at the end of this summer despite Victoria winning the Sheffield Shield.

A former fast bowler, Saker played 49 first-class matches for Victoria and also represented Tasmania. It was reported in March that Saker would leave his position as England's bowling coach - a job he had held for five years - to take the reins at the Melbourne Renegades, and the state coaching job has now been added to his remit.

Cricket Victoria CEO Tony Dodemaide said: "There were many high quality applicants for the role but with David's growing reputation as a world-class coach, built through his previous assistant role with Victoria and advanced during his time on the world stage with the England team, the board had no hesitation in endorsing the appointment."

"We look forward to David building on the success we had in the Sheffield Shield this season, as well as producing players for Australian squads. We would also like to thank the England and Wales Cricket Board, who have allowed David to end his contract with them earlier to enable him to take up this career progression opportunity and start his tenure with Victoria at the end of the month."

The state's coaching department will also feature David Hussey, who has been named as the batting coach, along with bowling coach Mick Lewis. Saker is due to begin his new role when he arrives from England in two weeks.