Robin Brown appointed new Zimbabwe coach

Harare, Aug 28 (UNI) Former Zimbabwe captain Robin Brown has been appointed as the new coach of the Zimbabwe national side.

The 56-year-old batsman takes over from Kevin Curran, under whom Zimbabwe recently suffered a humiliating 0-3 series whitewash against South Africa in their home turf.

''Zimbabwe Cricket Union (ZCU) has appointed Robin Brown as the national coach, with effect from September 1, 2007,'' the Zimbabwe board said in a statement.

Brown who was also an occasional wicketkeeper, played seven ODIs between 1983 and 1987. He captained Zimbabwe in the early 1980s and retired at the end of the 1989-90 season.

''I am very lucky to get the job and I am excited about it,'' said Brown after his appointment.

''The guys are currently on a high. I hope I can continue with the rebuilding and get some positive results for Zimbabwe,'' he added.

Brown's first assignment will be next month's Twenty20 World Championship in South Africa.

Meanwhile, the ZCU stated that 47-year-old Curran, who coached Zimbabwe for 42 ODIs since taking over from Phil Simmons in August 2005, had been given a new role by the ZCU.

UNI