Before the commencement of the 13th season of the Big Bash League, former English batsman Ian Bell has taken on the role of assistant coach with the Melbourne Renegades, working under head coach David Saker.
In recent years, Bell has concentrated on broadening his coaching expertise. He previously served as an assistant coach for the Hobart Hurricanes in the 2021–22 BBL season under then-coach Adam Griffith. Additionally, he worked as a consultant with New Zealand earlier this year, before the ODI World Cup. His coaching career includes stints with the England Under-19s, Derbyshire, Birmingham Phoenix, and Chennai Braves in the Abu Dhabi T10 League.
James Rosengarten, the general manager of the Melbourne Renegades, expressed enthusiasm about Bell’s appointment, stating, “We’re delighted to have someone of Bell’s caliber with the Renegades. His experience at the international and domestic levels speaks for itself, offering the fresh voice and expertise every club needs to succeed in the Big Bash. He’ll be a great fit, and we eagerly anticipate what he’ll bring to BBL 13.”
Bell brings ample experience as a player in the BBL, having been part of the championship-winning Perth Scorchers in the 2016–17 season. He returned five seasons later as an assistant coach with the Hobart Hurricanes.
With the freedom to collaborate with a seasoned playing group, including former rivals Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon, as well as
established players like Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, and Kane Richardson, Bell will also work with overseas players such as Quinton de Kock, Joe Clarke, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
Focused on securing the team’s third consecutive season victory, Bell aims to contribute to the success of the Melbourne Renegades. The BBL|13 campaign for the Renegades begins at the SCG against the Sydney Sixers on December 8.
