Tim Ludeman and Matt Gunther have been appointed co-coaches of Victorian Premier Cricket side Geelong, giving the 2018/19 grand finalist a distinctly south-west flavour as it looks to go one better next season.
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Ludeman, who used to play for Nirranda and Nestles in the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association, represented the Melbourne Renegades three times in Big Bash League 08 but could not hold down a regular spot in the lead up to the franchise's maiden championship.
But the 31-year-old made 627 runs in the VPC at an average of 41.8, including a knock of 126 against Kingston Hawthorn in January as the Cats came within three wickets of their first ever premiership.
Ludeman, now without a BBL contract, said he was "definitely keen" to pad up again for Geelong - which also features WDCA exports Tommy Jackson (Woodford) and Brody Couch (Nirranda) - on top of his new coaching duties.
"It's an opportunity that popped up and I jumped at it," he said.
The wicketkeeper-batsman, who lists Darren Berry and Andrew McDonald among his greatest mentors, said he was looking forward to working with Gunther, a former Dennington player now with nine seasons under his belt at Geelong.
"He's very organised and well-drilled," Ludeman said of the 25-year-old.
"The chance to coach with him is really a feather in the cap for the south-west."
The pair replace Liam Buchanan, who in turn made a last-minute replacement for Andre Borovec after the latter took a development role with Victoria.
Geelong declared on 409 runs in the decider, with Jackson making 122, but would see its total chased down by Carlton after 137 overs.
"We left everything out on the park and just came out second-best - that happens in sport," Ludeman said.
"How we can make that next step is the big question.
"But with four teams making finals last season we've got strong depth. And I think we've got the young talent and experience to keep pushing.
"I just like seeing players improve and push themselves. I'm pretty relaxed when it comes to coaching - for me it's just about providing an environment they can thrive in."
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