Damien Wright Returns as Tasmania Bowling Coach After Womens T20 World Cup Stint

Damien Wright Returns as Tasmania Bowling Coach After Womens T20 World Cup Stint

Cricket Tasmania has welcomed back one of its own as Damien Wright is set to return as the bowling coach of the men's team following the conclusion of his assignment with the West Indies women's side in the ongoing Women's T20 World Cup. The appointment marks a homecoming for the former Tasmania cricketer, who brings with him a wealth of experience gained across international cricket, the Indian Premier League and the Big Bash League.

Wright's return is expected to strengthen Tasmania's pace bowling department as the state prepares for another competitive domestic season.

Damien Wright Completes Successful West Indies Role

Since joining the West Indies women's team as assistant coach in January 2024, Damien Wright has specialized in fast bowling development and has played a key role in shaping one of the tournament's most impressive bowling units.

The Caribbean side currently sits second in Group B of the Women's T20 World Cup and remains one of only three unbeaten teams in the competition, reflecting the positive impact of the coaching staff.

Wright will officially take charge of Tasmania's men's bowling unit once the global tournament concludes.

A Homecoming for a Tasmania Cricket Veteran

For Wright, the appointment carries emotional significance. Having represented Tasmania during his playing career, he was part of the historic squad that secured the state's maiden Sheffield Shield title in the 2006-07 season.

He later continued his association with Tasmanian cricket by serving as a coach with the Hobart Hurricanes, gaining valuable experience in franchise cricket.

Expressing his excitement about returning, Wright described Cricket Tasmania as a place that has played a defining role in both his personal and professional journey. He emphasized his eagerness to reconnect with players and staff while contributing to the team's long-term success.

Vast Coaching Experience Across Global Cricket

Damien Wright arrives with an impressive coaching resume that spans multiple elite competitions. Between 2021 and 2023, he worked as the bowling coach for Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League, helping develop both established international stars and emerging fast bowlers.

His experience across IPL, BBL and international cricket provides Tasmania with a coach capable of working in high-performance environments and nurturing talent at every level.

Tasmania General Manager of High Performance Salliann Beams praised Wright's appointment, highlighting his expertise in player development and fast bowling coaching as key assets for the men's program.

Tasmania Focus While Hurricanes Make Coaching Change

Wright will primarily work alongside head coach Jeff Vaughan with Tasmania's Sheffield Shield and One-Day Cup teams, focusing on building a strong and consistent bowling attack for domestic competitions.

Meanwhile, the Hobart Hurricanes have also announced a coaching change, appointing Shawn Bradstreet as their new bowling coach. Bradstreet replaces James Hopes, who has taken over coaching responsibilities at the Sydney Sixers.

Bradstreet brings significant experience from previous roles with Sydney Thunder and New South Wales and recently worked alongside Ricky Ponting at Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket.

Positive Step for Tasmania Cricket

Damien Wright's return represents a major boost for Tasmania as the state continues investing in elite coaching and player development. His combination of domestic success, international exposure and franchise cricket experience positions him as an ideal mentor for the next generation of Tasmanian fast bowlers.

With the Women's T20 World Cup nearing its business end, Wright's focus remains on helping the West Indies challenge for global glory before beginning an exciting new chapter back where his cricket journey first flourished.