Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann has been appointed as Northamptonshire’s Head Coach after he signed a two-year contract with the county.
Lehmann will be succeeding John Sadler, who left the position in September after the side lost in the Vitality Blast Quarterfinal. Northamptonshire are running a winless campaign in the County Championship at the time, although they managed to finish fourth in Division Two.
Introducing your new Northamptonshire Head Coach… 🥁
Darren Lehmann 🤩
The former Australia Head Coach joins the Club on a two-year contract. 🙌
Read more 👉 https://t.co/JnsH5BwZe5 pic.twitter.com/poPen0Tv0n
— Northamptonshire CCC (@NorthantsCCC) October 25, 2024
Lehmann who quit coaching working after suffering heart attack in 2020, will be joining the club in February after working in a commentary role for ABC during the Australian summer.
“Northamptonshire has a great history in our game and I am looking forward to meeting the players and learning about the club and its past and create our own history over the coming months and years,” Lehmann said.
“The selling point for me is a group that wants to get better and follow their and the club’s dreams, create memories and play at the highest level possible. I will encourage this on and off the field, as well as open door policy. I’m sure we will have success and fun along the way.
“Pre-season will search for the high skill levels that the group possess, and the assistant coaches will drive this until I can get there after our summer. We have excellent coaches who want nothing more than for the players to succeed on and off the field.”
Lehmann has made more than 100 appearances for Australia and later joined them as coach where he bought a famous Ashes win in the 2013-14. He won the Big Bash League with Brisbane Heat in 2012-13 before returning to the national team fulfilling his role as assistant coach for the 2023-24 title. He stepped down from the role in September for a commentary gig.
Northamptonshire’s CEO, Ray Payne, said: “I am delighted we have been able to secure a new head coach with the history, reputation, skills and knowledge that Darren possesses. It is a real marker in the ground and demonstrates once again, the club’s desire to achieve to its highest level on the field.
“From our first conversation with Darren it was clear to see his passion and excitement for the opportunity and his coaching philosophy is something that aligns well with the goals of the club.
“With this appointment and David Ripley as head coach of Steelbacks Women, we believe we have strong leadership for both the men’s and women’s Northamptonshire teams and that will be the envy of others and well set for success.
“I wish Darren all the best in the role and know he will have the support of the whole club and all of the supporters as we strive for promotion back to Division One of the County Championship and success in both white-ball competitions.”
Also Read: Emilio Gay to Leave Northamptonshire at End of the Season
