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Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann has been hired by Northamptonshire to serve as manager at Wantage Road for a two-year term.
John Sadler, who resigned as head coach in September following Northants’ defeat in their Vitality Blast quarterfinal, is replaced by Lehmann, 54. Northants came back to finish fourth in Division Two despite being winless in the County Championship at the time.
Lehmann will join the team in February after serving as an ABC commentator throughout the Australian summer. He had previously taken a break from some of his coaching duties following a heart attack in 2020.
“Northamptonshire has a great history in our game and I am looking forward to meeting the players and learning about the club and its past and create our own history over the coming months and years,” Lehmann said.
“The selling point for me is a group that wants to get better and follow their and the club’s dreams, create memories and play at the highest level possible. I will encourage this on and off the field, as well as open door policy. I’m sure we will have success and fun along the way.
“Pre-season will search for the high skill levels that the group possess, and the assistant coaches will drive this until I can get there after our summer. We have excellent coaches who want nothing more than for the players to succeed on and off the field.”
After playing for Australia more than 100 times, Lehmann went on to guide them to victory in the 2013–14 Ashes. After playing for Australia, he rejoined the squad and served as assistant coach for the 2023–24 championship, winning the Big Bash League with the Brisbane Heat in 2012–13.
After a lengthy and fruitful playing career with Yorkshire, he went on to manage the Northern Superchargers of Headingley in the inaugural Hundred season, giving him a plethora of experience in England.
Northamptonshire’s CEO, Ray Payne, said: “I am delighted we have been able to secure a new head coach with the history, reputation, skills and knowledge that Darren possesses. It is a real marker in the ground and demonstrates once again, the clubs desire to achieve to its highest level on the field.
“From our first conversation with Darren it was clear to see his passion and excitement for the opportunity and his coaching philosophy is something that aligns well with the goals of the club.
“With this appointment and David Ripley as head coach of Steelbacks Women, we believe we have strong leadership for both the men’s and women’s Northamptonshire teams and that will be the envy of others and well set for success.