Sport

Phil Simmons leaves Ireland to coach the West Indies

‘I’ve had eight wonderful years and will always cherish the memories’

Ireland coach Phil Simmons has accepted a deal with West Indies. Photograph: Barry Chambers/Inpho
Ireland coach Phil Simmons has accepted a deal with West Indies. Photograph: Barry Chambers/Inpho
Fri Mar 20 2015 - 15:45

Phil Simmons eight-year stint in charge of Ireland has come to an end after it was announced he has accepted an offer to become the new head coach of the West Indies.

Simmons enjoyed a successful tenure, winning 11 trophies and qualifying for every ICC world competition as Ireland dominated associate cricket.

His time in charge culminated in this year’s strong World Cup campaign, which included wins over Zimbabwe and his new charges the Windies, before defeat to Pakistan meant Ireland were sent home after the group stages.

Trinidadian Simmons will have a significant job on his hands as he tries to restore pride to a West Indies side who sit eighth in the ICC Test and One Day rankings and who entertain England in a three Test series starting in Antigua on April 13th.

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Simmons said: “I’ve had eight wonderful years as Ireland’s head coach, and will always cherish the memories of those great days we’ve shared.

“The players and staff at Cricket Ireland have been simply magnificent. The wins in the World Cups over full members were all special as we showed the world just what Irish cricket is capable of.

“The Irish and West Indians are very similar in their nature and outlook on life and sport. They welcomed me into their country and I engaged with their sporting heritage and culture and I’m a richer, better person for it.

“It was a very difficult decision to leave, but I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to coach my home team. They’re going through a difficult period at the moment, but I’m confident I can help to improve their fortunes.”

Ireland skipper William Porterfield paid tribute to his outgoing coach, he said: “Phil has been superb for the team and Irish cricket throughout his time in charge. We’ve all improved and grown as cricketers thanks to his efforts.

“He’s been a towering presence not just in Irish cricket, but across the world where he is held in such high regard.

“While it’s sad to be losing him at this time, everyone in the squad understands his reasons for wanting to coach his home country. We wish him and his family all the very best in the future.”