Burgess and Stapleton have been tasked with the club’s top job as the Tigers vie to climb off the foot of the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association ladder.

Both top order batsman, Burgess is a senior player with Merrivale, while Stapleton is a former captain.

They will replace Luke Gannon in the role.

Burgess said coaching had been a long-term goal and was delighted to take the post.

“It was something I’d wanted to achieve for a long time. Josh and I had spoken about it a bit over the last couple of years and thought the time was right,” he said.

“We have a different work schedule in that I work the morning shift at Warrnambool Cheese and Butter and he works normal hours.

“That way, I can get to training and take that if Josh is a bit late or vice-versa. 

“We have the same ideas about how we’d like to take the club forward. We’re excited about the partnership we have in coaching.”

The 35-year-old said recruiting was already in full swing leading into the winter months.