Simmons named as new Irish coach

Former West Indian batsman Phil Simmons has been appointed as the new Ireland national coach.

The 43-year-old will take over from Adrian Birrell, who steps down from the post after the World Cup.

Simmons, who played 26 Tests and 143 one-day internationals, has signed a contract taking him up to the end of the 2009 ICC Trophy in the UAE.

"I'm sure I will able to continue the progress that Irish cricket has made over the past few years," he said.

He added: "I am very pleased to be joining the Irish Cricket Union and look forward to working with both players and administration."

The Trinidadian was sacked as Zimbabwe coach in 2005 after a poor series against New Zealand.

During his playing career, Simmons hit a half century for West Indies against Ireland in Downpatrick in 1991 and he was Man of the Match for Leicestershire against the Irish three years later, when he made 64 and took a wicket.

It is believed Simmons was the unanimous nomination of the ICU interviewing panel.

"Phil has a proven record at Test level as both player and coach," said ICU Chairman, Dr Murray Power.

"We look forward to working with him to build on the team's recent successes and further narrow the performance gap between Ireland and our professional opponents.