Allan Donald
Australia coach Darren Lehmann is happy that he will be working alongside Allan Donald. Pictured: Allan Donald (R) talks to his team player Scott Styris during a cricket practice session ahead of the Cricket World Cup in Chennai February 18, 2011.Reuters

South Africa bowling great Allan Donald has been hired by Australia as their bowling coach for their tour of Sri Lanka later this year. The decision came after Craig McDermott left the job post the ICC World T20 2016.

Australia gaffer Darren Lehmann is extremely delighted to hear that he will be working with Donald during Australia's tour of Sri Lanka in July and August.

"He brings a wealth of experience with him and our guys will benefit greatly from having him around. His Test record speaks for itself and he was without a doubt one of the most formidable bowlers of his generation," Lehmann was quoted as saying by AFP.

There were rumours that Donald is going to stay with the Australian team during their tour of South Africa as well in the summer. But Cricket Australia are yet to confirm that.

Cricket Australia have not taken a final call on the permanent replacement of McDermott. They have been considering former Australia seamer Jason Gillespie, who is currently coaching English county club Yorkshire, for the role.

Australia will embark on a two-month tour of Sri Lanka in July, during which they will be playing three Test matches, five ODIs and two T20 matches.

But before their tour of Sri Lanka, the Aussies will be flying to the Caribbeans to participate in an ODI tri-series which will also involve West Indies and South Africa. Adam Griffith will be the bowling coach for Australia during their tour of West Indies.