CPL 2022: Darren Sammy named head coach of Saint Lucia Kings

Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise Saint Lucia Kings announced the appointment of Darren Sammy as the team’s head coach on Friday (June 17). The former West Indies captain’s tenure will get underway this season which is scheduled to begin on August 30 and conclude on September 30.

Skipper Sammy led West Indies to T20 World Cup glory twice during his tenure, in the years 2012 and 2016. As a player, he also played a big role in taking Saint Lucia Kings (St Lucia Zouks earlier) into the finals twice during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. The franchise had announced last year that the all-rounder will not be participating as a player from the next season onwards.

Sammy’s appointment as Saint Lucia’s coach ensures that his affiliation with the tournament, which he has had since its establishment, will extend. Sammy had served the team in a variety of capacities, including as a player, captain, ambassador, assistant coach, and mentor.

“St Lucia is and will always be my home, it was always part of the plan to lead the franchise after my playing days. The time is now. I can’t wait to start this next chapter with this amazing franchise as we continue on our quest to win our first CPL title. Many thanks to the Kings franchise owners for the faith shown in me for this role. The journey continues,” said Sammy on his appointment.

Darren Sammy was a natural choice given his natural skills: Satish Menon

Saint Lucia Kings played the finals in two consecutive years (2020 and 2021) but could not win the title. Sammy, who has been associated with the franchise since 2013, will now look to take the side to a championship title while acting in a different capacity.

“We’re very happy to have Darren onboard as the new head coach for Saint Lucia Kings. He has been an integral part of the team once as a player captain and mentor. Now he will be seen in a new role as its head coach and as always will continue to inspire the team and propel them to greater heights. He was a natural choice given his natural skills both as a player and a leader and am sure that under his stewardship Saint Lucia Kings will continue to be a force to reckon with,” said Satish Menon, CEO, KPH Dream Cricket Pvt Ltd.