Darren Lehmann set to step down as Australian coach after World Cup and Ashes 2019

Former Australian cricketer and current coach of the national side, Darren Lehmann will not renew his contract after it expires in 2019. Lehmann replaced South African Mickey Arthur at the helm in 2013 after the latter’s disastrous run in the Champions Trophy. Lehmann had previous coaching experiences with Deccan Chargers, Brisbane Heat in the IPL and BBL respectively before taking the Australian job.

Under Lehmann, Australia have won two Ashes in Australia while losing two in England. His most notable achievement was the World Cup win in 2015. Though they have lost a few series, the team has had a good run in the past few years. Lehmann has got along with the team really well and has heaped praises on senior players like David Warner, Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc.

“That will be it,” Lehmann said to FoxSports when asked whether he will seek a new contract beyond 2019. “It will be a case of too much time, too much travel.”

“For me, I’ve really enjoyed the role and loving it,” he added. “We’ll just get to that point and work out what we do from there.” Lehmann was an unconventional left-handed batsman and an able spinner who could chip in with wickets whenever his team needed.

He was known for his unique batting technique and took guard outside leg stump which allowed him to face short balls with ease. However, his fitness let him down and his bulkily body was never appreciated in Australian cricket.

Replacement

Former Australian opener, Justin Langer is the frontrunner for the post. Longer has had successful seasons with Perth Scorchers and Western Australia. He has also served as the assistant coach and the batting coach of the national team from 2009 to 2012.

The Australian team is currently 3-0 ahead in the Ashes and is set to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Their captain Steve Smith has had a successful season after piling up tons of runs at an average that is second only to the great Sir Donald Bradman.