By Neto Baptiste
Legendary West Indies, Leeward Islands and Antigua fast bowler, Sir Curtly Ambrose, is one step closer in becoming the new elite pace-bowling coach for the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after making it on the shortlist for the job.
In a recent interview with Observer media, Sir Curtly revealed that he has made it to the next phase of the process and is awaiting final word as to when he will be interviewed.
“I got an email from them a couple of days ago saying that I have made the shortlist and that they will get in contact with me soon because they want to conduct the interview between the 29th of this month, and I think, the third of February, but they will get in contact with me and let me know which day, but yes, I did make the shortlist according to them,” he said.
The Antiguan, who has held temporary coaching jobs within the regional set-up following his success with the regional men’s team at the 2016 T20 World Cup, remains confident of his chances to land the important job.
“To be quite honest with you, whether I get it or not is another thing, but I am always very confident. If I wasn’t confident I wouldn’t have really applied, but I do feel confident, and making the shortlist is the first step because it simply means that, at least, they are looking at you. It just depends on how the interview goes and what happens after that,” he said.
If he is successful, Sir Curtly will be expected to work with England’s ‘next in line’ pace bowlers to ensure they are prepared for the rigours of international cricket. He will also, from time to time, be expected to assist with the senior squad and lead A tours.