Joining Birmingham Phoenix for The Hundred. Feeling the buzz?

It’s hugely exciting. This is a tournament that is being spoken about around the world. To have the responsibility of building the team from scratch is a great opportunity.

What role will coaches play?

The players are taking the game forward. The key is having coaches that blend with the players in a way that they can be innovative, creative and dynamic. All those words you associate with this new competition.

What about the tactical timeout?

It’s a positive thing. We’ve seen in the IPL. It’s a nice break to allow the coaches to communicate with the bowlers around tactical stuff. It puts demands on coaches to be aware and help players solve situations.

Which players would you like in your team?

That’s a hard one – I don’t want to play my hand! We’ve got Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes from the area. I’m going to stick with a red-haired theme - Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow. They would fit in with me here.

What about in the women’s Birmingham team?

Sarah Taylor, the wicketkeeper. She has some great skills. I’m probably biased but Ellyse Perry as she’s just moved to my home state Victoria. She’s a very good player.

Who would you like to pick from the past?

I was fond of Brian Lara. I liked the way he went about it. I can see him being a fairly good Hundred player with some of the shots he played. He played for Warwickshire too, so there’s a connection.

Will The Hundred create a need for even more bowling skills?

Jofra Archer has introduced a knuckle ball into his repertoire in the last six months. He was able to deliver that in the heat of a World Cup final. These formats are benefitting players and The Hundred will put more pressure on bowlers to find ways to beat the batsmen.

Who will you be bringing to watch The Hundred?

The kids. I’ve got two kids and they absolutely love the short-format concept in Australia. I can’t wait to bring them along for the ride as well.