Ireland look to fast-track Phil Simmons’ replacement

Cricket Ireland are hoping to fast-track the appointment of a new head coach after it was confirmed on Friday that Phil Simmons will take charge of West Indies and bring an end to a successful eight-year stint that saw Ireland win 11 trophies and qualify for six ICC world events.

A consultant specialising in global cricket recruitment has been retained, with Cricket Ireland officials having started the groundwork at the World Cup in the knowledge that Simmons was in talks with the West Indies Cricket Board.

Among those consulted for advice were former Ireland coach Adrian Birrell, who is now an assistant with South Africa, while a number of potential candidates are believed to have made it known that they would be interested in the post.

Cricket Ireland chief executive Warren Deutrom told The Irish Times that although Cricket Ireland would ideally have a new head coach in place before the showcase One-Day International against England at Malahide on May 8th, their focus is geared more towards the opening Intercontinental Cup game at home to the United Arab Emirates at the start of the June in what is the start of a process that could see Ireland gain Test match status.

Former New South Wales coach Matthew Mott, who acted as Ireland batting coach during the World Cup and proved a very popular addition to the backroom team, is likely to be sounded out, although it is believed that the 41-year-old may be reluctant to move to Ireland as he has a young family.

Part of the present New South Wales coaching staff, former Ireland all-rounder Trent Johnson recently made the move back to Australia and may prefer to continue his coaching education before taking on a head coaching role. Former South Africa and Australia coach Mickey Arthur, Pakistan batting coach Grant Flower and Zimbabwe coach Dav Whatmore fit the possible list of more high-profile candidates.

Whoever gets the job will certainly face the “hard act to follow” calls that Simmons faced when taking over from Birrell after the 2007 World Cup, a challenge the 51-year-old from Trinidad took in his stride.

Simmons is aware his challenge in taking over the side he played for between 1987 and 1999 is no small one, despite the West Indies qualification for the quarter-finals of the World Cup ahead of an Ireland side who beat them in their opening game in Nelson.

“It was a very difficult decision to leave, but I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to coach my home team,” said Simmons, who will be in charge for next month’s home Test series against England. “They’re going through a difficult period at the moment, but I’m confident I can help to improve their fortunes.”