Donald is one of the great fast bowlers of the modern era

The 40-year-old recently expressed an interest in becoming the team's bowling coach if Kevin Shine, who does the job now, is asked to focus on the Academy.

He will act as a consultant for the last two Tests against West Indies and the one-day series which follows.

Donald took 330 wickets in 72 Tests and 272 in 164 one-day internationals during an illustrious playing career.

He has been brought into the coaching set-up at a time when England's leading paceman Steve Harmison is struggling to find his best form.

Renowned for his accuracy and speed, Bloemfontein-born Donald was one of the key figures in South Africa's post-apartheid success, becoming the first Proteas bowler to take 300 Test wickets.

Allan's very keen to come which says a lot about English cricket England head coach Peter Moores

Donald, who also thrived in English county cricket at Warwickshire, said last week about the full-time bowling coach role: "I would love to do that job - it's a very high-profile job.

"With all the talent there is in England it will be fantastic to work with that."

Shine has been in his post since Troy Cooley left after the 2005 Ashes series to become Australia's bowling coach.

England head coach Peter Moores has already appointed former Zimbabwe captain Andy Flower as his assistant as he looks to get the England team back on track after the 5-0 whitewash by Australia, which was followed by a disappointing World Cup performance.

He said on Monday: "We know Alan's reputation as a player. We're just making sure whatever we bring over to add to our set-up fits in and is right.

"Allan's very keen to come which says a lot about English cricket that he wants to come over and coach but we're looking at all our options.