The former Australia coach Darren Lehmann has been appointed as the Northamptonshire Head Coach on a two-year contract.
The 54-year-old Lehmann will be replacing outgoing John Sadler who left in September after Northants fell in the Vitality Blast quarter finals. Although the team was winless in the County Championship at that point they later rallied to finish fourth in Division Two.
Lehmann had previously stepped back from some of his coaching work in 2020 and will join the club in February after working in a commentary role for ABC during the Australia 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 creating our own history over the coming months and years,” Lehmann said.
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
“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 an 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 has worked with Big Bash League franchise Brisbane Heat before returning to the team after his with Australia, fulfilling the role as assistant coach for their 2013-14 title.
“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 its highest level on the field,” said Northamptonshire CEO Ray Payne.
“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.”
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