``The board were unanimous,'' Bacher said in announcing the reappointment. ``He has an excellent record since taking over in October 1994.''

Bacher said Woolmer had a 71 per cent success rate in limited overs internationals and a 42 per cent success rate in Test matches. ``That is a very impressive record compared to other coaches in the international arena,'' he added.

Woolmer played in 19 Tests for England prior to joining the Kerry Packer tour. Before taking over South Africa's national team, he coached the provincial side Boland.

Meanwhile, Andrew Hudson has been called up by South Africa to replace Hansie Cronje, their injured captain, for the first Test against Pakistan starting in Johannesburg on Friday.

The career of Michael Slater came full circle yesterday when he was recalled for the forthcoming three-Test tour of India by Australia at the expense of the batsman who ousted him.

Slater replaces the Victorian left-hander Matthew Elliott for a return to the country where a rash shot in his 34th and last Test led to his sacking.

Australia, who arrive in Bombay on Feb 21, will be seeking their 10th straight Test series win under Mark Taylor and the first in India since Bill Lawry's side triumphed in 1969-70.