New Zealand Cricket has announced the appointment of former all-rounder Jacob Oram as the country’s new bowling coach. Oram takes over the role vacated by Shane Jurgensen in November. The 229-capped international brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously served as a bowling coach for New Zealand A, the women’s national team, and various franchise teams.
This appointment marks Oram’s official return to the New Zealand staff. He previously assisted the team as bowling coach during the 2022 Test tour of Bangladesh, the February T20I series against Australia, and the recent ICC T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.
Oram’s coaching journey began in 2014 as a bowling coach with New Zealand A. He then transitioned to coaching the New Zealand women’s team in 2018, guiding them through to the end of the ICC Women’s World Cup in New Zealand in 2021.
In addition to his national team roles, Oram has held prominent positions in domestic cricket. He was appointed head coach of the Central Hinds at the start of last summer, leading the side to their first Dream11 Super Smash final since 2016. Oram has also served as the Northern Warriors assistant coach in the Abu Dhabi T10 league and as bowling coach of Mumbai Indians Cape Town in the SA20.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Oram stated, “I’m really excited to have the opportunity to be involved with the Blackcaps again. To be back involved with a team that means so much to me and has been a big part of my life is a real honor. The recent opportunities I’ve had have been a great insight into where this team is going and I’m excited to continue that work in the coming seasons. There’s a fresh new wave of talent coming through in New Zealand’s bowling ranks and I hope that I can share my knowledge and experience to help best prepare them for the challenges of international cricket.”
During his 11-year international career, Oram played 33 Tests, 160 ODIs, and 36 T20Is, representing New Zealand in three ICC ODI Cricket World Cups and four T20 World Cups.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead highlighted Oram’s unique skillset, stating, “Jake’s a great operator. His career as a player and his experiences as a coach speak for themselves. He brings a deep understanding of the international game, but also experience in franchise cricket which will be worthwhile in understanding the modern player and the changing landscape of the modern game. It’s a really exciting opportunity for him and we’re looking forward to having him join the group full-time.”
Oram will officially assume his role as bowling coach on October 7.
