The decision surprised many but Simon Katich says a career-ending code switch from cricket to AFL had always been on his mind.
The former Test cricketer will take to the crease for the last time in this summer’s Big Bash series, after which he’ll take up full-time mentoring role as player development co-ordinator at Greater Western Sydney.
The 38-year-old said the job was too good an opportunity to pass up, given AFL had always been a big part of his life having played the sport as a kid.
“I’m grateful for my cricket career, but at the same time, to work in the AFL – a sport that I love – is something that I’m extremely excited about,” he said on Wednesday.
“It’s something that I’ve always thought about, in terms of loving sport and trying to be involved in a sport I have a passion for as well.
“This sort of thing doesn’t happen all the time.”
Katich, a long-time Richmond fan, said he was comfortable with calling time on his cricket career and move to a red ball game of a very different kind.
It’s a decision he’s been preparing for since being axed from the Australian Test side two years ago.
“I’ve had a good run, I can’t complain,” he said.
“To have played to 38 is something I never thought I’d ever do. So I’ve been very fortunate to play that long, 18 years in the game.
“I’m ready (to give it up) and this (role) is a big part of that, so I’m looking forward to moving on.”
Admittedly, the task of mentoring the Giants’ young players and leadership group is no easy feat – especially in such a professional setting.
But Katich – who has already begun the role on a part-time basis – has hopes his time in domestic, county and international cricket put him in good stead.
“I’ve had good and bad experiences in cricket – whether it’s with form, selections, injuries, all that sort of stuff,” the ex-NSW captain said.
“Whether it’s cricket or football, those mindset things can affect the way you play and the way you prepare.
“That’s hopefully something I can bring to the table in terms of experiences I’ve been through myself, but I’ll be learning a lot from the younger guys about what’s involved here and also the coaching staff to get me up to speed.”
The left-hander expects the role to be very hands on from day one, not ruling out running duties on match day for coach Leon Cameron.
Katich’s appointment follows the recent fallout from Ricky Ponting’s new autobiography, which published details of his infamous change-room bust-up with Australian skipper Michael Clarke.
Asked what his relationship is like with Clarke nowadays, Katich replied: “There is none. It’s pretty simple.
“That’s done and dusted, and as far as I’m concerned it’s all about moving forward and this was a fantastic opportunity.”
