Justin Sammons Resigns As Zimbabwe Cricket Coach, Reveals Why He Is Returning To South Africa

Zimbabwe men’s cricket coach Justin Sammons is leaving his post earlier than expected, bringing his two-year stint with the national team to an end as he prepares to return to South Africa to spend more time with his family.

Sammons will officially step down after Zimbabwe’s ongoing second Test against Afghanistan in Sharjah, despite having been contracted to remain in charge until the end of 2028.

His departure marks a change for Zimbabwe Cricket, which had entrusted him with rebuilding the team’s competitiveness across all three formats since his appointment in June 2024.

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Family Reasons Behind Sammons’ Departure

Sammons explained that the decision to leave was driven by his desire to return home and dedicate more time to his family.

Reflecting on his time with the Zimbabwe team, he described the experience as rewarding and expressed gratitude to the people who supported his work.

“Leading the Zimbabwe men’s national team has been an incredible experience, one that I will always look back on with great memories,” he said.

He also acknowledged the contribution of the players, technical staff and Zimbabwe Cricket employees, saying their commitment had helped the team make progress.

“Importantly, I must thank the players and technical staff for their continued commitment in striving to improve – they made my time in Zimbabwe one that I will always be grateful for. However, it is important for me to now move back home to allow for time with the family. I know the team will continue to improve moving forward, and I wish them all success,” he said.

Zimbabwe Cricket Responds To Coach’s Resignation

Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni said the organisation was disappointed to lose Sammons but respected his reasons for leaving.

Makoni credited the departing coach with helping improve the team’s performances, particularly in Test cricket and at the recent T20 World Cup.

“It was very difficult for us to accept Justin’s resignation, but we understand and respect his decision to return home to be with his family,” he said.

He added that Sammons had played an important role in developing the players and thanked him for his contribution to Zimbabwean cricket.