ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board announced today the appointment of Phil Simmons to the role of West Indies head coach on a three-year contract.

The 51-year-old Simmons was one of seven people interviewed for the post.

“We are thrilled with the appointment of Phil and we believe he is the right individual for our team and our region at this time, so we want to welcome him back home,” said WICB Chief Executive Officer Michael Muirhead.

“Phil has a proven ability to develop players, while cultivating great team spirit and a winning culture. We have a number of young, talented players about whom he is excited to be coaching and we believe he is the right fit.”

The WICB CEO said Simmons has an understanding of the current realities of West Indies Cricket and that his ability to articulate practical examples and strategies of things that could be implemented within the team to improve performance is impressive.

“His independence of character and his resolve to stand up for what he believes in were also strong qualities that convinced us that Phil was best suited to usher the West Indies team into a new era of success,” he said.

Simmons, who played 26 Tests and 143 One-day Internationals for West Indies between 1987 and 1999, acknowledged it was difficult to leave Ireland, but coaching the West Indies team was too good an opportunity to let pass.

“West Indies have a tremendous history and prestige in the game, and I am honoured to have been given this opportunity to be Head Coach,” he said.

“There is an abundance of young talent coming through the ranks and to be able to assist with the development of the future playing talent in the West Indies is fantastic. I can’t wait to begin and I am looking forward to starting work with the players.”

Simmons’ first task will be to oversee the West Indies team for the International Home Test Series against England next month.