Auckland Cricket chief executive Lindsay Crocker has this afternoon announced the appointment of Mark O'Donnell as the new coach of the State Auckland Aces. The 39-year-old O'Donnell will take over from Tony Sail who stepped down at the conclusion of the 2001/02 season.

New Zealand-born O'Donnell has been in South Africa for the past 14 years previously holding coaching positions with Eastern Province, Griqualand West, Gauteng (Transvaal) and the South African National Academy. He has been the team coach of Gauteng since 1995, guiding them to titles in the domestic four-day competition in 1999/00 and one-day competition in 1997/98.

"Mark impressed the selection panel with his no nonsense attitude, strong work ethic and considerable experience at the first-class level," Crocker said.

The appointment completes a rigorous selection procedure undertaken by a panel comprising ACA chairman Rex Smith, Crocker and ACA directors John Graham and Justin Vaughan.

O'Donnell who emerged from a pack of 18 applicants for the role is currently residing in Johannesburg and will commence his new position in July.

© Auckland Cricket Association