United rope in Johan Botha as fielding coach

KARACHI: Islamabad United on Wednesday announced that they had roped in former South African captain Johan Botha as fielding coach for the HBL PSL 2017 which will begin in Dubai on Thursday (today).

The IU spokesman said that Botha would replace Darren Berry for the post. “This is the only change in the team staff for Islamabad United from season-1 to season-2 of the PSL,” the spokesman said.

Darren Berry, who is currently serving as the coach of the South Australia team, had announced his unavailability for the second season of the PSL due to family commitments.

Botha, who has previously been the captain of the South Australia team, is currently playing for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League.

Regarding his replacement, Darren Berry said, “For personal reasons and commitments back home, I will unfortunately not be able to join the PSL this year.

“However, in Johan Botha, United have a former international captain and someone whom I’ve worked with for years. I am sure that he will be the perfect replacement and will add to an outstanding coaching staff. I wish him and the rest of the Islamabad United guys every success in PSL 2.” 

Botha will join Dean Jones, Tauseef Ahmed, Dean Woodford and Wasim Akram as part of the Islamabad United coaching staff.