Former Australia head coach Darren Lehmann has suddenly quit his jobs as an assistant coach for the Brisbane Heat and Queensland men’s teams to start a full-time radio commentary role with ABC Sport for the upcoming summer of cricket in Australia.
Lehmann, 54, still had one year left on his contract as an assistant coach with both the Heat and Queensland. He was part of the coaching team that helped the Heat win the BBL title last season, their first win since he coached them to their first trophy in 2012-13.
Lehmann was set to continue working with new head coach Johan Botha after Wade Seccombe left earlier this year. However, he decided to step down just before the start of the 2024-25 season to take on a commentary job with ABC Sport. His commentary will include the Border-Gavaskar series and the BBL.
This move could be the end of Lehmann’s coaching career. He had applied for head coaching positions with the Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Renegades but was not selected, as those jobs went to Tim Paine and Cameron White.
“I’ve had a great time over the years, with so many good memories,” Lehmann said. “I wish the best for Queensland Cricket and the Heat in the future, and I want to thank all the staff and players for making my time there so enjoyable.”
Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson praised Lehmann for the positive impact he has had on cricket in the state.
“Darren has been a big part of Queensland cricket for a long time, both as a team coach for the Bulls and the Heat and as a mentor for individual players,” Svenson said. “Helping the Heat win the BBL last summer was a great way for him to finish. While we were looking forward to having him with us again this season, we wish him all the best in his new role with ABC Sport.”
With Lehmann’s departure, Andy Bichel will be the only remaining member of the coaching team for both Queensland and the Heat. A new chapter begins under head coach Johan Botha and general manager of high performance Joe Dawes.
