Daniel Vettori, the former New Zealand captain, has assumed the role of head coach at Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL), replacing West Indies batting legend Brian Lara, as announced by the team on Monday.

Previously, Vettori served as the coach for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL and also worked as an assistant coach for the Australia men’s team.

Brian Lara, who initially worked as the batting coach at Hyderabad, took over as head coach last year. However, the team’s performance under his leadership resulted in a disappointing last-place finish in the 10-team league, with only four wins in 14 matches.

Sunrisers Hyderabad expressed their appreciation for Lara’s contributions during his two-year association with the team, bidding farewell to him on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, and extending their best wishes for his future endeavors.

Daniel Vettori, the Australia assistant coach, believes that England’s impressive winning record, rather than their aggressive playing style known as ‘Bazball,’ has captured the attention of Australia leading up to the Ashes series this season.

Under the guidance of coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, England has emerged victorious in 10 out of their 12 Tests since last year, displaying a dynamic and revitalized approach to the game.

Vettori, who played alongside McCullum for New Zealand, emphasized that it is the results achieved by England, regardless of the style they employ, that truly stand out in their progress in red-ball cricket.

“Regardless of the style they (England) are using, they’re playing winning cricket, and that’s what everyone gravitates towards,” Vettori told reporters on Thursday. “The fact that they’ve consistently performed at such a high level is truly impressive.”

Vettori also acknowledged McCullum’s positive attitude and the attention garnered by his nickname ‘Bazball.’ However, he emphasized the relentless nature of the English team and the need for Australia to anticipate their strong performance and not back down.

As England faces Ireland in a four-day Test at Lord’s, they hope that all-rounder Ben Stokes will recover from a knee injury to contribute with his bowling during the upcoming Ashes series. Stokes had previously been unable to bowl against New Zealand in February.

“We’re preparing for him to be at his best,” Vettori said regarding Stokes. “He is one of the top all-rounders in world cricket, and we know the value he brings to the team. Like Cameron Green for us, Stokes provides the balance and aggression that is essential for success.”

Australia’s only match before the Ashes commences on June 16 at Edgbaston is the World Test Championship final against India at the Oval. Vettori expressed excitement about the prospect of playing against one of the world’s best teams in such a crucial match, as it will serve as excellent preparation for the Ashes series.

“It’s six Tests of high intensity, and you couldn’t ask for a more thrilling contest,” Vettori concluded.

The former New Zealand captain has joined the Australian coaching staff. He is an assistant to head coach Andrew McDonald.

McDonald’s and Vettori have worked for Royal Challengers Bangalore, a franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). But then Vettori was the head coach and McDonald was his assistant.

Vettori was temporarily linked with Australia during a tour of Pakistan last month. This time he got full responsibility. Vettori said he was pleased to see the Australian team and its process during the Pakistan tour.

“I am delighted to see the Australian team in Pakistan go through the whole process of planning and preparation,” he told reporters on Tuesday. They are a very strong and united team. The team has the potential for future prospects and success. ”

Vettori has previously worked as a spin consultant for Bangladesh. The 43-year-old former spinner also has coaching experience in the IPL, CPL, and Big Bash.