Ireland have appointed Henrich Malan on a three-year deal, replacing his South African compatriot Graham Ford.

The 40 year-old enjoyed a modest first-class career playing ten times between 2005 and 2009 with Northerns.

Since finishing his career, he cut his teeth with Easterns in  SA, and after moving to New Zealand forged a successful coaching career winning six trophies, primarily with Central Districts (five) and Auckland Aces (one), while also being Head Coach of New Zealand A.

“It’s very humbling and a huge honour to be appointed Head Coach of the Ireland Men’s team," said Malan.

"A lot of credit has to go to Graham Ford, who has done a stellar job over the last four years. We have some serious building blocks in place which I believe we can build on going forward.

“My coaching philosophy has certainly evolved over time and I am very keen to get to know this group of players and staff to collaboratively shape our environment through the way we want to operate on a daily basis.

"The ‘wheel’ in Irish cricket is turning nicely for the stage it is at, but this point in time is a great opportunity to review what - and how - we are operating to not only grow the wheel, but make that wheel turn quicker."

Malan will take up the role in March, with interim Coach David Ripley remaining at the helm for the games against West Indies this month, and the T20 World Cup qualifiers in Oman next month.