Simmons named as new Windies coach

Former international Phil Simmons has been named the new head coach of the West Indies, just hours before the team tackle New Zealand for a place in the World Cup semi-finals on Saturday.

The 51-year-old signed a three-year deal with the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and will take up his new role after the World Cup.

Simmons coached Ireland at the World Cup and during his eight-year spell he took the non-Test playing nation to three World Cups and four World Twenty20 appearances.

"The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) announced today the appointment of Phil Simmons to the role of West Indies Head Coach on a three-year contract," said a WICB statement.

"Simmons was one of seven people interviewed for the post and was the outstanding candidate."

The Trinidadian played 26 Tests and 143 one-day Internationals for West Indies between 1987 and 1999.

His first assignment will be leading the West Indies into a home series against England next month, with the Australians due to visit for two Tests in early June.

The West Indies, who pipped Ireland for a quarter-final place at the World Cup on net run rate, are being coached at the tournament by Stuart Williams and Andre Coley with former captain Richie Richardson serving as manager.

They take on undefeated co-hosts New Zealand in Wellington.