West Indies Name Phil Simmons As Their Head Coach

West Indies have once again roped in Phil Simmons as their head coach. The Caribbean outfit had parted ways with Phil Simmons in a controversial manner in 2016. The former Ireland and Afghanistan coach was among three short-listed candidates and saw off competition from Desmond Haynes and Floyd Reifer to bag the job. His new contract will run for four years.

Simmons’ last stint with West Indies had ended just months after he guided the team to its second T20 World Cup title. At that time, the West Indies board had cited “differences in cultural and strategic approach” after removing Simmons. Later, he took over as Afghanistan coach and made an instant impression.

He helped the Asian team win the World Cup qualifier last year by beating West Indies in the final and make it to the main event. He was also at the helm when Barbados Tridents won the CPL title last week. Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt expressed his delight over the appointment and also said that the decision would help the board correct its past mistake.

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“Bringing Phil Simmons back is not just righting a past wrong, but I am confident that CWI has chosen the right man for the job at the right time. I want to also thank the very talented Floyd Reifer for the hard work he put in while he was the interim coach,” said Skerritt.

Jimmy Adams, CWI’s Director of Cricket, who was also part of the interview panel for screening the candidates, said:

“I am happy, after a very robust recruitment process at the appointment of Phil to the role of Head Coach. I have no doubt that Phil brings the requisite leadership skills and experience needed to drive improvement across our international squads and I look forward to supporting him in the role.”

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