Martin named as convener of selectors
FORMER rugby coach Steve Martin is used to switching codes.
He had a threeyear stint as Otago coach about 10 years ago before switching to an administration job in rugby league.
But now he is trying his hand at cricket.
The former Otago halfback has been appointed as the convener of selectors for the 201819 season. It is a parttime role.
‘‘I’m really excited to have been given the opportunity of contributing to Otago Cricket and the Volts in this new role,’’ Martin said.
‘‘It’s a great chance for me to use the skills and knowledge that I have accumulated over many years in sport to support the success of the Volts moving forward.’’
Martin has spent plenty of time on the sidelines at the University of Otago Oval throughout the years watching his daughter Katey Martin play for the Otago Sparks.
Martin will be joined on the selection panel by former Volts medium pacer Warren McSkimming.
McSkimming took 238 firstclass wickets for Otago during an impressive career. He retired six years ago but has remained involved as an occasional bowling coach.
Volts coach Rob Walter completes the threeperson selection panel.
The decision to appoint two independent selectors to join Walter was made following a review of the Volts’ season.
Otago Cricket Association performance and talent manager Simon Forde said both Martin and McSkimming would help strengthen the selection process.
‘‘Steve brings an extensive knowledge of the high performance sports environment into this role,’’ Forde said.
‘‘His skill and experience in creating quality systems and processes is well known. He understands the game of cricket, and I have no doubt that he is the perfect person to ensure that we stick to a thoroughly planned selection process.
‘‘Warren is an incredibly passionate Otago cricket identity — an Otago great — who brings 15 years of professional cricket experience to the selection table.
‘‘Warren is a thoughtful analyst of the game and is not afraid to express his views and challenge, when it is needed.
‘‘We are really comfortable that he will bring a fresh approach to this group of players, as we look to rebuild.
Otago gets its campaign under way with a Plunket Shield match against Northern Districts in Mount Maunganui, beginning on October 10.