The WACA is pleased to announce the appointment of former Australian and WA batsman Mike Veletta as coach of the Western Warriors for the next three seasons.

"I had enormous pride in representing WA on the cricket field and it's a great honour to be appointed the new state coach," said Veletta, who will begin his appointment on 23 April.

"I wish the Western Warriors every success in their final Pura Cup match in Melbourne and I look forward to speaking to the squad on their return. Wayne Clark had a terrific record with the team and I hope to continue that in the seasons to come."

The 37-year-old right-handed opener represented Australian in eight Test matches and played 127 first-class, 114 Sheffield Shield and 41 domestic one-day matches for WA.

Current captain/coach of Mt Lawley, Veletta will lead his side to an elimination final clash with Scarborough at Breckler Park, Dianella, this weekend.

MIKE VELETTA CAREER DETAILS:

Date of birth: 30 October 1963

Coached: Mt Lawley 1999-00, 2000-01, Canberra Comets 1995-96 to 1998-99

Played: 8 Tests (207 runs @ 18.81), 20 one-day internationals (484 runs @ 32.26), 127 first-class WA matches (8,038 runs @ 41.22), 114 Sheffield Shield matches (7,306 @ 41.04), 41 domestic one-day WA matches (1,010 runs @ 32.58)

First-class debut: 1983-84
Test debut: v New Zealand, Gabba, 1987-88
One-day international debut: v Pakistan, Sharjah, 1986-87

© 2001 Western Australia Cricket Association