Australian cricket coach sacked after World Cup failure

by Admin
July 31, 2024

Australian Matthew Mott has been removed as England’s limited overs men’s cricket coach after two years in charge.

The former Australian women’s cricket coach took over an English white-ball team that had changed the game’s two short formats, having dominated ODI cricket for a number of years, including winning the 2019 World Cup.

Mott then steered England to the T20 World Cup victory in 2022, shortly after he was appointed as coach.

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But the 50-year-old former Sheffield Shield batter had little success thereafter, with modest performances at the 2023 World Cup and this year’s T20 World Cup.

Marcus Trescothick will take over as interim coach while the search for a new leader begins.

“After three World Cup cycles in a short space of time, I now feel the team needs a new direction to prepare for the challenges ahead,” England cricket’s managing director Rob Key said.

“This decision was not made lightly, but I believe it is the right time for the team’s future success. With our focus shifting towards the Champions Trophy early next year and the next cycle of white-ball competition, it is crucial that we ensure the team is focused and prepared.

Matthew Mott has been removed as coach of England. Credit: Jan Kruger-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

“Marcus Trescothick is well respected in the dressing room and will take charge of team affairs alongside white-ball captain Jos Buttler. Marcus and Jos have a good rapport, and I think their partnership will help us maintain continuity and stability.

“On behalf of everyone connected to England cricket, and me personally, I would like to thank Matthew for all he has done for the team since his appointment.

“He can be proud of his achievements as he leaves his post as one of only three coaches who have won a men’s World Cup with England.”

Asked if he was still the right man for the job after England were smashed in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup in the West Indies, Mott insisted he was.

In a statement after his sacking, the Australian said it had been a privilege to coach the side.

“I am immensely proud to have coached the England men’s team; it has been an honour.

“We have put everything into trying to achieve success over the past two years, and I am incredibly proud of the character and passion that the team has displayed during that period, including a magnificent T20 World Cup victory in 2022.

“I would like to thank the players, management, and everyone at the ECB for their commitment, support, and hard work during my time. I leave with many great friendships and incredible memories.

“Finally, I would like to thank the England fans, who have always backed us and given us fantastic support wherever we have travelled around the world.”

Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara is among the leading contenders to take over the job, pending his commitments with T20 franchise teams around the world.

Buttler’s predecessor as captain, Eoin Morgan, has ruled himself out for the role.