FORMER Test fast bowlers Jason Gillespie of Australia and South African Allan Donald are happy to start coaching in Zimbabwean domestic cricket and are looking forward to helping rebuild the sport.
The pair were presented this week as head coaches of franchises in the Zimbabwean league for the 2010-11 season, with Gillespie leading the Midwest Rhinos and Donald in charge of the Manicaland Mountaineers.
In line with some political reforms, Zimbabwean cricket has been improving following feuds between players and administrators, a factor which has resulted in experienced players, coaches and officials returning to the country.
The 35-year-old Gillespie, who played 71 tests and 97 one-day internationals, praised Australia for taking steps to restore ties with Zimbabwe following years of tour boycotts on political grounds in opposition to the government of President Robert Mugabe.
Australia have agreed to host the Zimbabwe national team next year after lobbying from Zimbabwe Sports Minister David Coltart.
"It's really positive," Gillespie said. "I was speaking to the chairman of Cricket Australia, Jack Clarke, when he came down here (to Zimbabwe). We spent some time together.
"The most important thing is he says he will not hesitate to engage Zimbabwe again."
But while Australia appears to be reaching out to Zimbabwe, British Sports Minister Hugh Robertson last week ruled out the possibility of England resuming ties with the African country while Peter Chingoka remains chairman of Zimbabwe Cricket.
"I don't get involved in the politics of sports," Gillespie said.
"I'm sure other countries will do what Australia have done in future and everything will fall in place.
"I don't see that being an issue moving forward.
"But from my perspective, things are looking up here in Zimbabwe. The right noise is coming out. To be part of it is humbling.
"You can just see it in the expectations of the public. It's something we are looking to sink our teeth into."
The 43-year-old Donald, who played 72 Tests and 164 one-day internationals, is delighted at becoming head coach after numerous roles as a specialist, including as England's bowling coach.
"I was getting a bit frustrated," Donald said. "I met a few people who were searching for a head coach but they kept saying 'Sorry, you have got the pedigree, you haven't got the experience'.
"But how do you get experience when you haven't coached?
"This is a great opportunity for me to expose myself, to be in charge of the side. It's not only good for us to get exposure as coaches, but to help the youngsters here develop."
Donald will also work with Zimbabwe national team bowling coach Heath Streak.