West Indies all-rounder Darren Sammy has formally changed roles for Peshawar Zalmi in the ongoing Pakistan Super League.
Sammy is no longer captain – and will instead by Zalmi's head coach. Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz has succeeded Sammy as captain. Sammy, though, might still play. Zalmi confirmed he is head coach-cum-player for the next two years. Former head coach Mohammad Akram has been appointed director of cricket. Peshawar are priced at 5.00 by bet365 to win the 2020 PSL.
“Darren is very close to my heart, and the Zalmi family's heart. It took a little persuading to come to this decision. Darren will be the new head coach of Peshawar Zalmi starting today for the next two years. His contract is already as a playing coach, so if the committee feels he's in form to play, he can take the field as well. But from today, he is head coach first,” said Akram.
Comments from Sammy
The 36-year-old Sammy played 38 Tests, 126 ODIs and 68 T20Is between 2004 and 2017. He also boasts plenty of experience in the Indian Premier League for Royal Challengers Bangalore and Sunrisers Hyderabad. He has also played in Australia's Big Bash League, the Caribbean Premier League and Global T20 Canada.
“As a player, it's always difficult to make the transition. Like Akram said, we are a family, and throughout the years of playing and leading this franchise, we have shown it's not just a cricket team but a family. The truth is the last two years I've played not fully fit. This year, I feel I'm ready to go, but if there's one thing that made Peshawar Zalmi what it is, my message is to do what's necessary, what's best for the team. As a leader, I feel I've demonstrated that,” added Sammy.
“This year, my preparation and form has not been exactly what I wanted it to perform in the best way possible. So we came to this decision to do what was best for the team. If I'm asking my players to do what's best for the team, then I must practice what I preach. I still have the option to select myself, but I think for this tournament right now, looking at the young players we have, it's time for me to lead the team in a different role.”
