Former Australia batter Michael Klinger announced batting coach of ILT20 outfit Gulf Giants

Former Australia batter Michael Klinger has been announced as the new batting coach of International League T20 (ILT20) side Gulf Giants ahead of the new season, which will commence in November 2026. The announcement is part of a wider shuffle in the franchise's backroom staff following a disappointing season last time around. 

Klinger, 45, comes in with a plethora of experience coaching various franchise teams worldwide. He started his coaching journey in the Big Bash League, serving as the head coach of Melbourne Renegades. Klinger was also the coach of the Manchester Originals Women (now Manchester Super Giants) in The Hundred last year. As things stand, he is the active head coach of the Gujarat Giants side in the Women's Premier League, who share owners with the Giants in ILT20, Adani Sportsline.

"This is an exciting opportunity to join another team within the group. Gulf Giants have strong foundations and I'm looking forward to working closely with Simon and the rest of the staff to help build a solid unit that can make a big impact in the new season," Michael Klinger said via Cricinfo. 

Klinger's announcement comes a month after the Giants appointed Simon Helmot as their new head coach, replacing former England batter Johanthan Trott. 

"Klinger brings extensive experience as both a player and coach and is well acquainted with [the group's] high-performance environment and player development approach," the team statement said. 

Apart from the former Australian international, the Giants have also brought in Kadeer Ali as fielding coach and Gary Brent as their strength and conditioning coach. The trio will now join Helmot, along with former New Zealand speedster Shane Bond (bowling coach), James Pipe (physiotherapist) and Saurabh Walkar (performance analyst).

The Giants had an underwhelming season last time around, finishing second from bottom in the standings, ending the season with five consecutive defeats, and tasting victory on just three occasions. The team, led by England batter James Vince, won the inaugural season in 2023 after beating the Desert Vipers in the final.