Neil MacRae gets national job in Austria

HIGHLY-rated Aberdeenshire coach Neil MacRae has been head-hunted by the Austrian national side.

MacRae, who led the Dons to a league and cup double last year, will travel to Vienna this weekend to assess his new side and he has vowed to use the model of Afghanistan to inspire one of world cricket's minnows through the international ranks.

MacRae, who was approached by the Austrians after impressing ICC Europe staff at a coaching camp earlier this year, accepted his new role after receiving assurances that he can remain as player-coach of Aberdeenshire.

He said: "The Austrian job came out of the blue but I look on it as another major cricketing challenge. It is a part-time position and that will let me continue with Aberdeenshire which was a major factor for me.

"Going to Austria is a step into the unknown but it is a great opportunity to cut my teeth as coach of a national team."

Austria, an affiliate member of the ICC, are ranked a lowly 22nd in Europe.