Welsh Fire is pleased to announce that Michael Klinger has joined the senior management team in a dual capacity ahead of the 2026 season.
Michael has signed a two year contract, and will work strategically alongside General Manager Mark Wallace to oversee recruitment for both the Men’s and Women’s teams. He also takes the position of Women’s Team Head Coach for the 2026 campaign in The Hundred, with previous Head Coach Gareth Breese set to stay on as an Assistant Coach in the restructured team.
The appointment further strengthens ties between Glamorgan County Cricket Club and Washington Freedom following the joint acquisition of Welsh Fire in July this year. Alongside his new position with Welsh Fire in The Hundred, Michael retains his role of Director of Cricket at Washington Freedom in the MLC, having joined the organisation in 2022.
The former Australia T20 batter comes to Sophia Gardens having completed the 2025 season as Head Coach of Manchester Originals Women. Among his prior achievements, Klinger has coached Gujarat Giants in the Women's Premier League in India, the Melbourne Renegades Men’s Team in the Big Bash League and the Sydney Thunder Women’s team.
On his new appointment, Michael said:
“I’m thrilled to be taking on an expanded role with Welsh Fire, leading list management for both the men’s and women’s teams, alongside being Head Coach of the Women’s side.
“I’d like to thank Manchester Originals for the opportunity to work with them last year. It was a fantastic and rewarding experience for which I’m very grateful.
“This new role allows me to combine coaching with a broader strategic focus and to continue strengthening my connections with the Washington Freedom organisation, as well as with the current management and coaches at Welsh Fire.”
Welsh Fire can also confirm that Mike Hussey will continue in his role as Men’s Head Coach for the 2026 season, with Mike saying:
“I’m looking forward to working with our new partners at Welsh Fire and utilising our shared expertise in putting together our squads and strategies for 2026.”
Glamorgan and Welsh Fire CEO Dan Cherry added:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Michael to the Welsh Fire family. From his career to date, Michael’s experience, pedigree and enthusiasm matches our long-term strategic vision of ambition and success for the franchise.
“Michael adds real quality to our recruitment and coaching capabilities, while his arrival allows Mark to focus directly on implementing our wider cricket strategy. We are hopeful that Gareth Breese will stay on to support Michael after leading the team to the final in 2024.
“It’s great also to continue our partnership with Mike Hussey. Mike is an outstanding leader who has made great strides with our Men’s team in recent years. We are all excited for this new chapter as we maximise our partnership with Sanjay Govil and his team to take progressive steps forward on and off the field.”
