Former England batter Ian Bell joins New Zealand coaching staff ahead of limited-overs series against former side

New Zealand have appointed Ian Bell to their coaching staff ahead of their four-match T20 series against England next week.

The former England batter will act as assistant to New Zealand coach Gary Stead for the limited-overs series, before taking on the role of batting coach for the following four-match ODI.

He will then act as assistant and assistant bowling coach for the Black Caps ODIs against Bangladesh in September.

Former England and Warwickshire star Bell, 41, retired from playing in 2020 after a distinguished career that included five Ashes triumphs.

Bell is currently assistant men’s coach of Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. Since retiring he has held various coaching positions at Derbyshire, Hobart Hurricanes, England U19s and Lions.

He’ll be joined in the New Zealand set-up for the ODIs by former England wicketkeeper-batter James Foster, who will replace him as assistant and continue on into the World Cup later this year.

Foster has had spells coaching in the Indian Premier League and Pakistan Super League.

Bell’s appointment comes as part of New Zealand’s effort to rotate their coaching staff during a busy period.

The well-being of our players and staff is of vital importance with the sheer amount of cricket being played these days," New Zealand manager Simon Insley said.

New Zealand manager Simon Insley said: "We're delighted with the calibre of coaches we've been able to confirm to assist the Black Caps on the various tours.

"New voices don't just freshen things up for the players, they also bring new ideas and energy to the whole group, which is especially important on away tours.

"We're looking forward to welcoming the new guys into our group and getting stuck into a busy and important period of cricket for the team."

The four T20 series matches will be held at Chester-Le-Street, Old Trafford, Edgbaston and Trent Bridge between August 31 and September 5.

England and New Zealand will then face off in the four-match ODI at Cardiff, the Rose Bowl, The Oval and Lord’s between September 8 and 15.

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