In a significant move for New Zealand cricket, former all-rounder Jacob Oram has been appointed as the new bowling coach of the BLACKCAPS. The 46-year-old steps into a role that has been vacant since Shane Jurgensen's departure in November 2023. Oram's appointment, announced on August 29, 2024, marks a new chapter in his long-standing association with New Zealand cricket.
A Journey from Player to Coach
Jacob Oram is no stranger to the cricketing world. With a rich playing career that includes 33 Tests, 160 ODIs, and 36 T20Is for New Zealand, Oram has been a key figure in the BLACKCAPS' lineup during his playing days. His all-round abilities made him a valuable asset, and now, as a coach, he brings that same versatility and deep understanding of the game to his new role.
Oram's coaching career has been equally impressive. Before his current appointment, he served as the bowling coach for New Zealand A, where he honed the skills of the country's emerging talent. He was also the bowling coach for the New Zealand women’s team from 2018 to 2021, leading them through various international campaigns, including the ICC Women’s World Cup. His most recent coaching role was as head coach of the Central Hinds, where he guided the team to their first Dream11 Super Smash final since 2016.
In addition to his domestic coaching roles, Oram has gained valuable international experience. He was part of the coaching staff for the Northern Warriors in the Abu Dhabi T10 League and served as the bowling coach for Mumbai Indians Cape Town in the inaugural SA20 league. These diverse experiences have equipped Oram with a unique perspective, making him well-suited to take on the challenges of coaching at the highest level.
A Fresh Start with the BLACKCAPS
Oram’s journey with the BLACKCAPS as a coach began in December 2023 when he was chosen as the assistant coach on New Zealand’s 2-Test tour Bangladesh. Though he faced difficulties at the beginning including February 2024 3-0 T20I series loss against Australia and early exit from T20 World Cup 2024, Oram never gave up on his love and devotion for New Zealand cricket.
Oram said upon his permanent appointment as bowling coach with tears of joy, “To be back involved with a team that means so much to me and has been a big part of my life is a real honour.” Additionally, he pointed out how in fact there was a potential within upcoming talents in New Zealand’s bowling. In his comment, he added: “There’s a fresh new wave of talent coming through in the BLACKCAPS bowling ranks, and I hope that I can share my knowledge and experience to help best prepare them for the challenges of international cricket.”
First Assignment: India Test Series
Jacob Oram is to officially take his position as New Zealand’s bowling coach on October 7, 2024. His first mission will be the eagerly awaited three-match Test series against
India that commences on October 16. For Oram, this series will serve as a litmus test since he intends to seize the chance to make an instant inroad by steering New Zealand’s bowlers against one of the toughest batting line-ups globally.
The upcoming series will also provide an opportunity for Oram to translate his vision into reality regarding team bowling, targeting new bowlers’ growth while fine-tuning seasoned players. With Oram leading them, it is expected that BLACKCAPS’ pace attack will bring in new strategies based on past experiences but keeping up with present-day trends in international cricket.
