CAPE TOWN: South Africa’s most successful skipper and master batsman Graeme Smith will be the coach of Benoni Zalmi, the Pakistan outfit that will be participating in the Global T20 League, team owner Javed Afridi announced here on Monday.

Disclosing the names of its coaching staff in a press conference, the Benonoi Zalmi team management proudly revealed the name of Graeme Smith as the team’s coach while Russell Adams will be taking on the role of tournament director.

On being asked about how he felt about being involved with the Benoni Zalmi, Graeme Smith said, “I’m excited and looking forward to this association.”

The various talents of the team, to be decided later, combined with Smith’s proven track record is an exciting combination that fans should look forward to. Bringing his varied expertise and leadership skills, Graeme Smith is perfectly poised to guide Benoni Zalmi to the top of the Global T20 League.

Smith also mentioned relishing the prospect of working with Chairman Benoni Zalmi and Peshawar Zalmi, Javed Afridi in his new role.

Speaking on the occasion, Javed said: “In Pakistan, Zalmi is a beacon of hope for the youth. With Benoni Zalmi we aim to create the same hope and become a bridge between passion and opportunity for the South African youth.

“As an entrepreneur, I’ve always believed nurturing and enabling leadership is key to accelerating positive change. Nowhere is the importance and impact of leadership more visible than in sports. I am passionate about creating young leaders and believe Graeme Smith, who successfully led the South African cricket team for so long, is the model of leadership and inspiration for the talent that will form Benoni Zalmi.

We look forward to Graeme’s valuable inputs and guidance to inspire youth to strive towards changing their destiny using Benoni Zalmi as a platform.”

On Aug 27 the eight teams participating in the Global T20 League will pick their squads in a highly-anticipated draft in Cape Town.

Published in Dawn, August 22nd, 2017