The former Australia head coach Darren Lehmann has agreed to take charge of County Championship side Northamptonshire.
The 54-year-old led his country to World Cup success in 2015 and helmed four Ashes series between 2013 and 2018, winning two on home soil but losing both in England. He then resigned in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.
Lehmann will start his new role in February, having penned an initial two-year deal. He had previously spent several years in county cricket as a prolific overseas player for Yorkshire and returned to Headingley for one season in charge of Northern Superchargers in the Hundred in 2021.
“Northamptonshire has a great history in our game,” he said. “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. 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’m sure we will have success and fun along the way.”
Lehmann replaces John Sadler, who left the club last month after three years in charge. Northamptonshire ended the season in fourth place in Division Two of the County Championship, and last won a trophy in the 2016 T20 Blast tournament.
“I am delighted we have been able to secure a new head coach with the history, reputation, skills and knowledge that Darren possesses,” said the Northants chief executive, Ray Payne. “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. His coaching philosophy is something that aligns well with the goals of the club.”
