Sydney, Sep 15 (IANS): Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday appointed former English batsman Graeme Hick as the national side's specialist batting coach till 2020.

In a transition phase, the young Australian batting line-up will be looking up to the 50-year-old's assistance in dealing with the swinging ball in England and the spinning deliveries of the sub-continent.

Zimbabwe-born Hick who played 65 Tests, said it was a privilege to be involved with the Australian side.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my current role with Cricket Australia and have worked with some great young up-and-coming players during my time heading up the under-19 programme and more recently with the national performance squad during the quadrangular A ODI series," he said.

"To take the next step up with the men's team and getting the opportunity to work with some of the best players in the world is something I am really looking forward to."

Hick, who was appointed as CA high performance coach in 2013, also represented England in 120 One Day Internationals between 1991 and 2001.

His 526 first-class matches, yielded him 136 centuries at an average of 52.23, making him one of the most prolific runs-scorers of all time.

Commenting on the appointment, Australia head coach Darren Lehman said it was fantastic to have a former player of Graeme's calibre on board.

"Graeme worked with us during the recent ODI tour in the West Indies and we were really impressed with what he brought to the group.

"He is a very experienced player in all conditions and will bring a wealth of knowledge with him.

"With an ICC Champions Trophy, an Ashes Series and an ICC World Cup all to be played in England in the near future, his knowledge of those conditions will also be invaluable," the former all-rounder said.