All-rounder Daren Sammy will not captain the St Lucia Zouks in the 2021 edition of the Caribbean Premier League.
Sammy led the Zouks to the 2020 CPL final, which was won by the Trinbago Knight Riders.
He will join head coach Andy Flower's staff as a T20 cricket consultant and brand ambassador.
“It's been an absolute pleasure to have led and been a part of the St Lucia Zouks from its inception,” said Sammy.
“Even though some may say good things must come to an end it will not be in this instance: St Lucia Zouks and I will always be a team.
“But since venturing into coaching, I realise I have a new passion that can allow me to still contribute and play a part in taking the franchise forward on its quest to winning a CPL title and developing future stars.”
Sammy played 38 Tests, 126 ODIs and 68 T20Is for the West Indies from 2004 to 2017. He is also the head coach of Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.
Praise from Flower
“Daren is an icon of West Indies white-ball cricket and the heartbeat of St Lucia Zouks,” added Flower.
“He's decided to step away from playing after an amazing career both with the West Indies, where he led the side to two T20 World Cups, but also as a really inspirational leader, full of integrity, for the island.
“We want to continue our partnership with Daren coming in as part ambassador, part coach, part mentor alongside me.
“I have loved my interaction with him. Thank you very much for what you have done and look forward to working with you in the future.”
Who Have St Lucia Kept?
The Zouks, meanwhile, have announced the retention of several players. These include batsman Andre Fletcher, fast bowler Kesrick Williams, spinner Roston Chase and all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall.
“Preparations are ongoing as the franchise works aggressively on identifying exceptional players to bring to the team to victory,” added Flower.
The CPL 2021 is scheduled to start on 28 August. The tournament will be played entirely at Warner Park in St Kitts and Nevis. This is the home ground of the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots.
“Warner Park has been the scene of some of the most iconic matches in CPL history and the high-scoring ground will be an ideal venue for the tournament, and fans can expect explosive cricket,” read a statement from the tournament organisers.
