West Indies appoint Monty Desai as batting coach as Phil Simmons grows backroom team

Having agreed a two-year deal, his first assignment will be in working with Kieron Pollard’s limited-overs side ahead of a T20I series against India. The first of three games takes place on December 6 at Hyderabad

West Indies have appointed Monty Desai as their new batting coach, joining a management team led by Phil Simmons.

Desai, who held a similar role with UAE during the T20 World Cup Qualifier, has previously held coaching roles with Afghanistan, Nepal, Canada and IPL teams Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Lions in a career of over 12 years.

Having agreed a two-year deal, his first assignment will be in working with Kieron Pollard’s limited-overs side ahead of a T20I series against India. The first of three games takes place on December 6 at Hyderabad.

“I am very excited to join a team with such a rich history in the world cricket arena, one that I myself grew up admiring,” Desai said of his new role.

“I am very much looking forward to being part of a journey where I can help to create a winning work environment, learn and embrace a new culture, and build a 'happy dressing room' tradition alongside other excellent leaders.

“I am eager to join forces with head coach Phil Simmons and director of cricket Jimmy Adams, and our captains, such that I may contribute in every possible way to the success of our team.”

Desai is the second Indian to join Simmons’ coaching staff, with AR Srikkanth having come onboard as an analyst. He has previously worked with Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League.

Simmons and Desai were also colleagues during Simmons' time in charge of Afghanistan.

“I have worked with Monty before and he is an excellent coach,” Simmons added. “He has proven he has the ability to get players to improve on their talent and also to perform better in matches.

“He has vast knowledge of the game and it is good he is starting here with us in India. I look forward to seeing him work with our batsmen in all formats as we look to get better in all areas.”

Subscribe to The Cricketer this Christmas and receive a £20 John Lewis voucher or Alastair Cook’s autobiography. Claim your free gift here