Langer's appointment was a popular choice among fans and cricket royalty, with social media buzzing in support for the former Test opener.

Former England Test captain Michael Vaughan was among the past greats to congratulate Langer on the new gig.

But he jokingly expressed his concern that Langer would work his magic too well ahead of next year's Ashes series in England.

"No question he will have a positive impact," Vaughan wrote on Twitter.

"Concerns me already about next Yrs Ashes !!"

Australian Test legends Ricky Ponting and Jason Gillespie were in the running for the top job. But there were no sour grapes from them on missing out.

"Very excited for my mate Alfie. The Australian Cricket Team is in great hands," Gillespie tweeted.

And Langer's predecessor, Darren Lehmann, was also quick to congratulate Langer.

Lehmann wanted Langer to take over from him when his contract expired next year.

But those plans were brought forward when Lehmann resigned in the wake of the ball tampering saga in South Africa.

Former Test captain Allan Border felt Langer would excel in the top coaching role.

"It's a holistic approach with Justin - he develops the cricketer and the person," Border told cricket.com.au.

"That'll be good for the team.

"He's also a hard-nosed, very competitive fella.

"Western Australia Cricket has flourished under his stewardship and he's earned his stripes through some very successful years there.

"Through his own playing career, he's got a good insight into what it takes - he wasn't the most naturally gifted player but he got everything out of his talent.

"He'll also bring work ethic to the table."

Australian Associated Press