When McDonald was initially appointed in 2022 it was on a four-year deal which took him to early 2026. The extension also includes an away Test series in India and the next Ashes tour in 2027. The next ODI World Cup takes place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia during October and November 2027.
“I am very fortunate to have an exceptional group of leaders, players, coaches and staff who are fully invested in the ongoing well-being, success and development of this group,” McDonald said. “The professionalism, commitment and experience of my fellow coaches and the wider staff have ensured the journey has been extremely successful but just as importantly created a culture of unity, trust and inclusivity.
“International cricket has many challenges for all teams and I am particularly proud how the group, players and staff, across all formats have navigated those together.”
McDonald took over in the head coach role after the ugly departure of Justin Langer in early 2022 and has guided the men’s team to significant success including the 2023 ODI World Cup and World Test Championship titles. The extension means he will have the opportunity for Test series wins in India and England which have recently eluded the side.
Australia are currently in a race to qualify for next year’s WTC final at Lord’s in a bid to defend that title with the upcoming India series vital to their prospects.
Nick Hockley, the Cricket Australia CEO, said: “Andrew has proven to be an outstanding men’s head coach who as well as delivering exceptional results has built a strong coaching team, methodology and an excellent environment for the team to perform at its best. We are delighted to extend his tenure for a further two years.”
