Jacob Oram, a former all-rounder for New Zealand, has been named the men’s cricket team’s bowling coach. The role that Shane Jurgensen had previously left empty in November 2023 has been filled by him. Officially, Oram will assume over on October 7.
After helping the squad in the 1-1 series draw during the Test tour to Bangladesh in late 2023, the 3-0 T20I series loss against Australia in February 2024, and the Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this June, where New Zealand was eliminated in the group stages, Oram has now been handed the position permanently.
The 46-year-old was named New Zealand A’s bowling coach in 2014, marking the start of his coaching career. From 2018 until the Women’s ODI World Cup, which was hosted in New Zealand in March 2022, he assumed leadership of the women’s cricket team in the same role.
Oram has also served as a coach for several teams in a range of competitions. He served as MI Cape Town’s bowling coach in the SA20, the Northern Warriors’ assistant coach in the T10 competition, and the head coach of the Central Hinds in the Super Smash.
During his 11-year playing career, Oram represented New Zealand in 33 Tests, 160 ODIs, and 36 T20Is. He expressed his intention to impart his skills to upcoming bowlers to help them get ready for the international stage.
“I’m really excited to have the opportunity to be involved with the Black Caps again,” he said. “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 honor. The recent opportunities I’ve had have been a great insight into where this team is going and I’m excited to continue that work in the coming seasons.
“There’s a fresh new wave of talent coming through in the Black Caps bowling ranks and I hope that I can share my knowledge and experience to help best prepare them for the challenges of international cricket.”
Oram’s addition to the New Zealand coaching group thrilled head coach Gary Stead as well. The all-arounder’s excellent career and his coaching experience in the franchise game, according to him, will bring out the best in the players.
“Jake’s a great operator,” said Stead. “His career as a player and his experiences as a coach speak for themselves. He brings a deep understanding of the international game, but also experience in franchise cricket which will be worthwhile in understanding the modern player and the changing landscape of the modern game. It’s a really exciting opportunity for him and we’re looking forward to having him join the group full-time.”
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