Eric Simmons named Delhi Daredevils asst. coach

Delhi Daredevils have appointed the Indian team's bowling coach Eric Simmons as their assistant coach for the Indian Premier League, starting March 12.

Simmons, who will assist chief coach Greg Shipperd, will join the squad on Monday.

"Simmons's experience will be very valuable to the youngsters in the side and the presence of a specialist bowling coach will help us," Daredevils' Chief Operating Officer Amrit Mathur said.

"He has worked with the South African team and is currently India's bowling coach. He was also available during the IPL and that made it an ideal situation for us," he added.

Simmons said he is looking forward to the new assignment.

"I have heard a lot about the Daredevils and I have also seen some of them at close quarters while working with the Indian team. It will be a great experience to work during the IPL and I look forward to the experience," said Simmons.

The 47-year-old was appointed bowling consultant of the Indian team for the Test series against Bangladesh and the Test and ODI series against South Africa.

Simmons, a medium-pace bowler and a handy lower-order batsman, played for Western Province and came into the South African team in 1994 at the age of 32.