Is Tim Nielsen the Right Choice as Head Coach of Australia U-19s Ahead of the India Series?
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Synopsis
Excitement fills the air as Tim Nielsen takes the helm of the Australia U-19 cricket team ahead of a crucial series against India U-19s. With the U19 World Cup looming, can Nielsen's expertise lead the young squad to success? Discover the details of this pivotal appointment and what lies ahead for the team.
Key Takeaways
- Tim Nielsen appointed as head coach of Australia U-19s.
- Upcoming series against India U-19s includes three ODIs and two Youth Tests.
- Series is vital for preparation for the U19 World Cup.
- Squad announced, excluding Oliver Peake.
- Nielsen brings extensive coaching experience to the role.
Melbourne, Aug 8 (NationPress) Former Australian coach Tim Nielsen has been appointed as the head coach of the Australia Under-19 team as they prepare for their upcoming series against the India Under-19s, coinciding with the approaching U19 World Cup.
Cricket Australia has announced a 15-player squad for the home series against India Under-19s, taking place in Brisbane and Mackay starting next month. Notably, the squad will miss star batter Oliver Peake, who has been chosen to tour with the Australia A team instead.
This series will feature three 50-over matches and two four-day Youth Tests. The Youth ODIs are scheduled for September 21, 24, and 26 at Ian Healy Oval in Brisbane. The first Youth Test will also take place at Ian Healy Oval, starting on September 30, while the second Test will be held in Mackay from October 7.
The 57-year-old Nielsen returns to Australian cricket in a developmental role, succeeding Lachlan Stevens as Cricket Australia's development coach earlier this year. His inaugural task is to lead the young squad in their last bilateral series before the Under-19 World Cup in January, which will occur in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Nielsen brings significant experience, having served as the coach of the Australian men's national team from 2007 to 2011, following a long stint as an assistant under John Buchanan. He also directed the now-defunct Centre of Excellence, playing a vital role in developing future talent.
After his national coaching role, Nielsen acted as high-performance manager for both South Australia and the Adelaide Strikers before stepping down in February 2024. Shortly after, he joined the Pakistani setup as their red-ball high-performance coach, collaborating with his close friend and former teammate Jason Gillespie during Gillespie's tenure as Pakistan's Test coach.
"We are thrilled to continue our preparation for the ongoing ICC U19 World Cup cycle, with an exciting squad of emerging players," stated CA's Head of National Development Sonya Thompson. "This multi-format tour is designed to challenge players to adapt and grow, while also providing selectors and coaches with valuable insights ahead of the National U19 Championships in December. We are also pleased to welcome Tim Nielsen as Head Coach of the National U19 squad. His extensive international experience and leadership will be crucial in guiding and inspiring Australia's next generation of cricketers."
Australia Under-19 squad: Simon Budge, Alex Turner, Steve Hogan, Will Malajczuk, Yash Deshmukh, Tom Hogan, Aryan Sharma, John James, Hayden Schiller, Charles Lachmund, Ben Gordon, Will Byrom, Kasey Barton, Alex Lee Young, Jayden Draper
Reserves: Zed Hollick, Tom Paddington, Julian Osborne.
Point of View
I believe that Tim Nielsen's appointment as head coach of the Australia U-19 team marks a pivotal moment for the development of young talent in Australian cricket. His wealth of experience and proven track record will undoubtedly provide the necessary guidance as these players prepare for the challenges ahead, especially with the U19 World Cup on the horizon.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Tim Nielsen?
Tim Nielsen is a former coach of the Australian men's national cricket team and has recently been appointed head coach of the Australia U-19 team.
What is the upcoming series about?
The Australia U-19 team will face India U-19s in a series of three ODIs and two Tests, serving as preparation for the U19 World Cup.
When does the series start?
The series against India U-19s begins next month in September.
Where will the matches be played?
The matches will be held in Brisbane and Mackay.
What is the significance of this series?
This series is crucial for player development and serves as a final preparation before the U19 World Cup.
