The Board of the Victorian Cricket Association today named Michael O'Sullivan as the new Coach of the Bushrangers for season 2001/02. A former Assistant Coach of the Bushrangers, O'Sullivan replaces John Scholes who resigned from the position last week.

VCA Chief Executive Officer Ken Jacobs, welcomed the appointment.

"After consideration of a number of options available to the VCA, the Board felt it preferable to fill the position from within the current structure in an effort to minimise any potential disruption the players. We believe that in Michael O'Sullivan, we have appointed an extremely dedicated and talented coach who is well respected within Victorian Cricket."

Jacobs said the coaching position would be reviewed at the end of the season.

"Michael's appointment is for the remainder of the current season, with the position to be reviewed at season's end."

O'Sullivan, who said he was excited by the unexpected opportunity to coach the Bushrangers, paid tribute to the former coach.

"I've been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work closely with and learn from, John Scholes, over a period of five years. He has had a tremendous impact on both the players, and myself during that time. However I'm looking forward to the challenge ahead in both competitions, starting with next week's opening match against the Southern Redbacks in the Pura Cup."

Brian McFadyen will continue in his current role as Assistant Coach to the Bushrangers and Coach of the Victorian ACB Cup team.

© 2001 Victorian Cricket Association