Kadeer Ali has enjoyed his first season as Worcestershire’s Assistant Head Coach and says the success achieved by the team has made it even more memorable.
Former Worcestershire opener Kadeer moved up last winter from Seconds Coach into his current role after Alan Richardson’s promotion to Head Coach.
He quickly and effectively adapted to working with the first team squad on a regular basis, although he had some previous experience alongside Richardson, primarily in the One Day Cup.
Kadeer said: “The first year, I’ve absolutely loved it and, having the success that we’ve had, makes it even more enjoyable.
“I’m just grateful firstly to the club for giving me the opportunity. When I got a call last winter from Dave Manning (Board Member), I was delighted.
“Then to work with someone like Richo, who I’ve known for a while, and to assist him, I’ve really, really enjoyed it.
“We set out a few goals for the summer, to be as competitive as we could do in all three formats, and I think we’ve done that really well this year.
“The way we played during the summer was exactly how we wanted to go about our business.
“I was enjoying my role as second team coach, seeing the young lads break through from the Academy, and also trying to help guys get back into the first team, the different roles you have to try and take on.
“For me, whether it was this year or a couple of years down the line, it didn’t really matter but I’m grateful it came when it did.”
Kadeer says he has learnt a lot working alongside Richardson.
He said: “His man management is really good, the way he has kept the squad together this year during some challenging times in the summer.
“The environment he has created allows players to speak, he allows players to be themselves, and in terms of performances on the pitch, he allows them to go out and play as freely as they can.”
Assistant Coach Richard Jones, who oversaw much of the Seconds programme, has also slotted in effectively.
Kadeer said: “My last year on the Academy at Warwickshire was Jonesy’s first year so I had worked with him before.
“He has fitted in really well. He has had some opportunities with the first team as well, during the T20 Blast and some of the four day games.
“He is a good guy to have around and we are delighted he has joined us last winter.”
