McDonald is Oz’s full-time head coach

Cricket Australia said on Wednesday that McDonald’s contract had been made permanent after serving as interim coach following Justin Langer’s departure in February. “The journey so far has been particularly pleasing. I am honoured to be given this incredible opportunity for what is an exciting period ahead,” said McDonald, who was the favourite to secure the job full-time after Australia’s 1-0 Test series victory in Pakistan.

“We interviewed several excellent candidates for this role, which is one of the most important in Australian sport,” said CA chief executive Nick Hockley. “Andrew has already shown he is an outstanding head coach. The vision he outlined for the role during the appointment process was both impressive and exciting, making him our clear choice.”