England men’s performance director Mo Bobat has been confirmed as the new director of cricket at Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, and he will leave the ECB in February next year.
Bobat, 40, has overseen the England men’s team for the past four years, identifying and developing players who have helped the team win World Cups in the 50-over and 20-over formats, while captaining -Have reinvigorated their Test fortunes under the coach. Partnership between Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum.
He has been working at the ECB since 2011, initially managing the England Men’s Under-19 programme, before being appointed the ECB’s first Player Identification Lead in 2016.
Bobat has previously worked with RCB on a consulting basis, and he has a long-standing relationship with new RCB head coach Andy Flower from their years working together at the ECB. Now the pair will look to resume that partnership in the IPL ahead of the 2024 event.
“I have had the most amazing 12 years at the ECB and it has been both an honor and a privilege to spend the last four years as Performance Director,” Bobt said. “It has truly been a dream to support multiple Ashes campaigns and our efforts towards the World Cup.
“I will always be grateful for all the opportunities and support I have received over the years and will take with me many special memories, shared achievements and friendships.
“I’d like to thank all my current and former colleagues and of course all the players with whom I’ve been able to enjoy time. I’d especially like to thank Rob Key for showing so much confidence in me over the last 18 To enable my favorite transformation of the month and towards my new professional challenge.
“When the time comes, I will leave with a heavy heart and a sense of pride knowing that our international route is in great shape and filled with excellent people.”
England Men’s managing director Key described the news as “bittersweet” and admitted he would miss working with a key colleague in the ECB’s back-room team.
“This is a bittersweet moment for me personally as I am delighted that Mo has been given an incredible opportunity, it marks the end of perhaps the most enjoyable partnership of any of my careers to date.
“When I first came to the ECB 18 months ago, Mo was the guiding hand that allowed me to put my feet under the table and play my role. I have no doubt that his support and expertise Without it I would have drowned.
“His 12 years at the ECB should be an inspiration to many and show what can be achieved if you never give up and believe in yourself.
“Anybody wants to make an impact in whatever they do, and Mo can look back and see how he has impacted not only English cricket but also England cricketers. I wish him all the best.”
Bobcat’s appointment completes RCB’s fully foreign back-room staff with Flower, Adam Griffith (bowling), Freddy Wilde (analyst) and Ivan Speechly (physio).
RCB chairman Prathamesh Mishra said he was keen to see how Bobat’s England influence would translate into RCB’s style of play. RCB finished sixth in IPL 2023 and reached the playoffs in the three seasons before that (2020 to 2022), but are still chasing their maiden IPL title.
“RCB has always focused on a performance-oriented approach and creating a culture that reflects its ‘Playbold’ philosophy,” he said. “Bobutt has already proven what he can do in a similar role with England, and I believe that with expertise and years of experience, he will guide RCB to new horizons and excellence “
Luke Williams appointed RCB Women head coach
“I am thrilled to have this opportunity with RCB and cannot wait to begin preparing the team for the second season of the WPL,” Williams said in a statement released by RCB on Saturday. “I look forward to working with a sporting group that will host many of the most exciting players in Indian and world cricket as we look to bring a bold and exciting style of play and success to our huge and passionate fan base. “
RCB captain Smriti Mandhana was a part of Brave’s title-winning run. Williams also coached the Strikers to runner-up finishes in the WBBL in 2019 and 2021. She is also in charge of the South Australia Scorpions in the Women’s National Cricket League, the domestic 50-over competition in Australia.