Phil Simmons quits Ireland to be West Indies coach

Phil Simmons has accepted an offer from the West Indies Cricket Board to become their new head coach at the conclusion of the ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The appointment will bring to an end the Trinidadian's eight years of unparalleled success as Ireland coach in which time his charges have dominated associate cricket, winning 11 trophies and qualifying for every ICC world event.

Simmons said he would always cherish the memories from his eight years as Ireland's head coach and described the staff at Cricket Ireland as "simply magnificent".

"The Irish and West Indians are very similar in their nature and outlook on life and sport," Simmons said.

"They welcomed me into their country and I engaged with their sporting heritage and culture and I'm a richer, better person for it.

"I'll always be eternally grateful for the opportunity given to me by Cricket Ireland and in particular CEO Warren Deutrom, and it's been a great partnership over the past eight years. I've made some wonderful friends in that time, which has been among the happiest periods in my life."

Simmons was in charge of Ireland for 224 matches from April 2007 - until today he was the longest serving coach in international cricket.

During that time, Ireland won 116 and lost 89 games, including victories over England, West Indies, Zimbabwe and Bangladesh during his tenure.

Ireland won three of their six games at this year's World Cup, including that famous win over the Windies, and only lost out on a quarter-final place to Simmons' native land on run-rate.

"It was a very difficult decision to leave, but I couldn't turn down the opportunity to coach my home team", Simmons said today.

"They're going through a difficult period at the moment, but I'm confident I can help to improve their fortunes.

Ireland captain William Porterfield also paid tribute to the outgoing coach.

"We've all improved and grown as cricketers thanks to his efforts," Porterfield said.

"He's been a towering presence, not just in Irish cricket, but across the world where he is held in such high regard.

"While it's sad to be losing him at this time, everyone in the squad understands his reasons for wanting to coach his home country. We wish him and his family all the very best in the future."

Cricket Ireland will begin the search for a new head coach immediately.

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