Daren Sammy, Andre Coley appointed WI Men’s coaches

Former T20 World Cup-winning skipper Daren Sammy and former Jamaican cricketer Andre Coley have been appointed as the new head coaches of the West Indies Men’s senior teams. The appointments, which were made following a transparent interview process, were confirmed on Thursday, May 11 after the much-anticipated Cricket West Indies Board of Directors meeting.

While Coley will take up the reins of the West Indies ‘A’ team and the senior Men’s team in Tests, Sammy will be seen in coaching role for the Senior team in white ball cricket, i.e. ODIs and T20Is.

Sammy will initiate the proceedings as the new head coach by being in charge of the team when they face the United Arab Emirates in the latter’s territory in June; while Coley’s first assignment as the Test head coach would come against India when the Rohit Sharma-led side will play two Tests in the Caribbean islands in July.

It’ll be a challenge but one that I’m ready for: Daren Sammy

Speaking on his new role, two-time T20 World Cup-winning skipper Daren Sammy said that he was all geared to take up the new challenge. He also mentioned that he would be keen on having a similar approach as he had as a player and also appreciated the two new captains, Shai Hope and Rovman Powell, as well as the talent that grooms under them.

“It will be a challenge but one that I’m ready for and excited about. I’m really looking forward to the opportunity, especially looking at the players we have and the impact that I believe I can have in the dressing room. I believe I will bring the same approach as I had as a player: the passion, the desire for success, and my undying love for West Indies cricket,” Sammy was quoted as saying by westindiescricket.com.

“When I look around there is an abundance of talent and what I saw in South Africa in the white ball matches under new captains Shai Hope and Rovman Powell and the leadership provided by Andre Coley, there is great belief that we can do well. I’m looking forward to imparting my knowledge, my tactical acumen, my communication skills and my man-management skills. I get excited about putting the plans together and seeing the players execute them,” he further said.