Zimbabwe announce new head coach after missing out on T20 World Cup 2024

Justin Sammons has been appointed as the head coach of the Zimbabwe senior men's cricket team, Zimbabwe Cricket announced on Wednesday.

Sammons replaces Dave Houghton, who resigned after Zimbabwe failed to qualify for the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup. Former Zimbabwe cricketer Dion Ebrahim will serve as the assistant coach.

Following Houghton's resignation, Walter Chawaguta and Stuart Matsikenyeri served as interim head coaches during tours of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, respectively. Sammons, previously a batting consultant for South Africa, brings extensive coaching experience. Ebrahim, who played 29 Tests and 82 ODIs for Zimbabwe, has coached in New Zealand and with the Black Caps.

ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani praised Sammons's coaching experience and dedication, while Sammons expressed excitement about his new role.

"We are delighted to confirm Justin as Head Coach of the Zimbabwe Senior Men's National Team," said ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani. "He brings a wealth of coaching experience and a reputation of identifying, nurturing and developing some of the best young talent in South Africa. His hard-working and passionate approach as well as sense of values on and off the pitch make him the ideal person to take us forward."

"It is an absolute privilege to be appointed as the Zimbabwe Senior Men's National Team Head Coach. I look forward to the road ahead and I am excited to start working with this talented group of players," Sammons said.

Zimbabwe also announced that Elton Chigumbura, the former captain of Zimbabwe, will assume the role of head coach for the Zimbabwe men's Under-19 team. Additionally, Paul Adams, the former spinner from South Africa, has been appointed as the team's bowling coach.