Graeme Smith to take up coaching duties of Benoni Zalmi in T20 Global League

The T20 Global League will be graced by the presence of their legendary leader Graeme Smith, who will be found as a coach of the franchise Benoni Zalmi. Arguably one of the greatest openers in the history of the game, Smith hung up his boots back in 2015 at a relatively younger age to spend more time with his family.

Since his retirement, the classy southpaw appeared in various commentary panels voicing his opinions. His addition will do a world of good for the Benoni Zalmi side, who will be having the swashbuckling opener Quinton de Kock as their marquee player.

Famous journalist Akber Ali revealed the news through his official Twitter handle and the appointment was later confirmed by the team’s official Twitter handle as well. Geoffrey Toyana will be assisting the 36-year-old as the latter gears up for this exciting tournament, which commences at the end of this year.

Smith excited about his first venture into coaching

Graeme Smith said that he was excited to be a part the side and is also looking forward to his first assignment as a coach. Having represented South Africa for over a decade, Smith won the most number of matches as a captain in Test cricket history. Under his leadership, they remained unbeaten on overseas tours for almost 8 years.

He wished the team, the tournament and the owner of Benoni Zalmi, Javed Afridi all the luck in the world. Javed Afridi is the CEO of Haier Pakistan. He also owns the Pakistan Super League team Peshawar Zalmi, who won the 2017 season. He is an avid fan of the sport and is working relentlessly towards building the sport in his homeland.

“This is my first venture into coaching post a lengthy cricketing career. I am so excited to be part of the Global T20 League,” Smith said as quoted by the tournament’s official Twitter handle.

“I have no doubt that the GTL, Javed Afridi & Benoni Zalmi will be a roaring success both on and off the field. We will create pride, passion, hope and opportunity for the people & youth of South Africa,” Smith added.

“We are proud to announce the legendary Graeme Smith as the Head Coach of Benoni Zalmi,” read a Tweet from Zalmi, who will look to gather some decent players when the auction commences. South African cricket experts have already termed this as a revolution in their country’s cricketing history and such marquee ropings will only justify these arguments.