NEW DELHI, Aug 22: Former India coach John Wright will coach the World XI teams during the inaugural Super Series against Australia in October, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Monday.

Wright, 50, has been entrusted the task of plotting world champions Australia’s downfall in three One-day Internationals at Melbourne’s Telstra Dome between Oct 5 and 9 and the six-day Test match at the Sydney cricket ground from Oct 14-19.

The matches, expected to generate huge television revenues, have been granted official status by the ICC.

“We have found the right man to coach the World teams,” ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed told a media conference to announce Wright’s appointment.

Wright, the former New Zealand captain who voluntarily ended a five-year coaching stint with India in April to devote time with his family, has been the most successful international coach against Australia in recent years.

Under his guidance, India defeated Australia 2-1 in a thrilling series at home in 2001 and followed up by holding Steve Waugh’s men to a creditable 1-1 draw in Australia in the 2003-2004 season.

Wright said he was delighted to accept the challenge of his new job.—AFP