Wellington (New Zealand), July 28: New Zealand's greatest cricketer, Sir Richard Hadlee, has been appointed to a new position on a restructured national selection panel. Hadlee, formerly chairman of selectors, was today named selection manager of a panel which will include newly appointed national coach John Bracewell.
Bracewell, a former test off-spinner and contemporary of Hadlee, was appointed New Zealand coach on July 3, replacing Denis Aberhart. The new selection format, announced by New Zealand cricket, awards Bracewell the right of veto on all team selections.
Bracewell, who has recently enjoyed success as coach of the English county Gloucestershire, hinted strongly earlier this month he was not prepared to be a bystander in selection debates.
He said he could not be expected to accept accountability for the performances of a team he had not chosen.
The interim selection panel announced today will be headed by Hadlee and will initially include acting national coach Ashley Ross.
Ross will lead the New Zealand team on a tour to India in October, before Bracewell takes up his coaching role in December. He is then expected to give up his selection position to the incoming coach.
The panel will include two selectors who have yet to be appointed. Serving selectors Ross Dykes and Brian Mckechnie are known to have reapplied for their positions. Bureau Report