Somerset one-day captain Alfonso Thomas joins Delhi Daredevils for coaching role
Sunday 5 April 2015 09:59, UK
Somerset one-day captain Alfonso Thomas has taken up a short-term coaching contract with IPL side Delhi Daredevils.
Thomas will be with the Daredevils for just two weeks, from April 2-16, as he continues to recover from the broken ankle he suffered over the winter.
In 2011 the South African played in the IPL with the now defunct Pune Warriors and has played in Australia’s Big Bash League with the Adelaide Strikers and Perth Scorchers.
Thomas, who will work under Delhi coach Gary Kirsten, said: "I have enjoyed my time as a player in the IPL and this is a great opportunity to gain coaching experience in the short term and to work with Gary which I am really looking forward to."
Somerset director of cricket Matt Maynard said the timing of the Delhi role worked well, as Thomas would not be fit in time for Somerset’s first County Championship match on April 12.
“The chance arose for him to take on a short-term coaching role at Delhi which is great experience, should he wish to move into coaching in the future,” Maynard said.
“Medical support to the IPL teams is fantastic and he will be continuing with his rehabilitation while in India.
“He will be back with us on April 16 and will be in contention for selection for our second County Championship of the season which begins on April 26."
