Bond joins Mumbai Indians as bowling coach for IPL 8

Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond was on Friday appointed as the bowling coach of Mumbai Indians for the eighth edition of the Indian Premier League, scheduled to be held in April-May.

The 39-year-old Bond, currently employed in similar capacity with the New Zealand national team, will join in the ranks of Mumbai Indians' support staff along with former Australian great Ricky Ponting, Jonty Rhodes (fielding coach) and Robin Singh (batting coach).

Ponting was recently handed over the responsibility of head coach for Mumbai Indians.

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Bond is no stranger to IPL. Having played his trade during 2010 season with Kolkata Knight Riders, the Kiwi is hopeful to settle quickly in his new role.

Commenting on his upcoming assignment, Bond said: "It's my privilege to be associated with the most highly regarded franchise in IPL. I look forward to bring in my cricketing experience to work along with Ricky (Ponting) and the team."

Bond's appointment with Mumbai Indians came close on the heels of his decision to step down as bowling coach of New Zealand after the upcoming World Cup.

The former international paceman's contract ends at the completion of the tournament and he has decided against seeking an extension.

The 2015 season of IPL will be played from April 8 to May 24 this year.

Image: Shane Bond

Photograph: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images