Phil Simmons has announced to step down as Cricket West Indies (CWI) head coach following the team’s traumatic showcases in the ongoing editing of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Following their position on the ICC T20I rankings for teams, they first had to go through the Group Stage round in order to qualify for the main one, the Super 12. However, their struggles let them down in the very first round, expelling them even before reaching the Super 12.
They kickstarted their journey with a defeat against Scotland but managed to win versus Zimbabwe. Another loss in a do-or-die clash versus Ireland finally booked them a ticket to home. Simmons, who is equally disappointed with the team as all West Indies’ fans, also finds it heartbreaking to see the two times World Cup winner failing to make it through the Qualifying round this time.
However, he has clarified that it is not the sole reason why he is letting his position go. The upcoming Test series against Australia will be Phil’s last task as West Indies head coach. The two-match Test series is scheduled from 30 November to 12th December. Notably, he was with the team when they lifted the T20 World Cup title in 2016.
Giving his statements to CWI, he narrated,
“I acknowledge that it’s not just the team that is hurting but the proud nations we represent as well. It’s disappointing and heart wrenching but we just didn’t turn up. We weren’t good enough and we now have to watch a tournament play-out without our involvement. It’s unfathomable and for that I deeply apologise to our fans and followers.
“From a personal perspective this is not a knee jerk reaction, but a move I have been considering for some time and now is the time to make public that I will step down as West Indies Head Coach at the end of the Test series against Australia. It is earlier than hoped for, but I will now focus my energies in Australia on continuing to build on the excellent progress the Test team has made. Of course, as the President has pointed out, we will also carry out the necessary review into our World Cup campaign.”“I must say I have enjoyed aspects of the unique challenge that being West Indies Head Coach provides and the unwavering support of my Management Team. There remain some exceptional individuals within CWI who I firmly believe will continue to work in the best interests of West Indies cricket.”
? BREAKING NEWS?
Phil Simmons to step down as Head Coach of West Indies Men’s TeamRead More⬇️ https://t.co/3I2mOIUgr6
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