Delhi: Justin Sammons is going to step down from the post of head coach of the Zimbabwe cricket team. Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed this and said that Sammons will be relieved of this responsibility after the second Test match against Afghanistan to be held in Sharjah. This match will also be the last match of Zimbabwe's current UAE tour.
Sammons has cited his desire to spend more time with his family as the reason for his resignation. He wants to return back to South Africa, so that he can be closer to his family.
Was made the head coach of Zimbabwe in June 2024
Justin Sammons was appointed the head coach of the Zimbabwe men's cricket team in June 2024. During his tenure, the team achieved many important achievements and improved its performance.
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Under his coaching, Zimbabwe performed brilliantly in the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. The team reached the Super-8 stage for the first time, which was its best performance so far in the T20 World Cup.
Sammons wants to spend time with family
Regarding his resignation, Justin Sammons said that leading the Zimbabwe national team has been a great experience for him. He will always remember this responsibility with good memories.
Justin Sammons will step down as Zimbabwe head coach after the ongoing Test against Afghanistan. Despite having a contract until 2028, Sammons has decided to return to South Africa to spend more time with his family. He leaves behind a stronger Zimbabwe side, including a historic 8th-place finish at the 2026 T20 World Cup and memorable victories over Australia and Sri Lanka.
— Cricket Shots Media (@Cri_Shots_Media) November 14, 2026
He said, 'Leading the Zimbabwe national team has been a great experience for me. The memories made during this time will always remain with me. I would like to thank Zimbabwe Cricket Board for giving me this opportunity. Apart from this, I also express my gratitude to all the people associated with Zimbabwe cricket.
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Sammons further said, 'Now it is important for me to return home and spend time with my family. I have full confidence that this team will perform better in future also. I wish all the players and the team all the best for the future.
Thus, the second Test against Afghanistan will be the last match for Justin Sammons as the head coach of Zimbabwe. After his departure, the team will have to search for a new head coach.
FAQ
Why did Justin Sammons resign as Zimbabwe coach?
Justin Sammons wants to return to South Africa and spend more time with his family.
When did Justin Sammons become the head coach of Zimbabwe?
Justin Sammons was appointed head coach of Zimbabwe in June 2024.
What major achievement did Zimbabwe achieve when Justin Sammons was the coach?
Zimbabwe had made it to the Super-8 of the 2026 T20 World Cup, which was its best performance so far in the tournament.