KABUL, Dec 31 (AFP): Former West Indies all-rounder Phil Simmons has been appointed coach of Afghanistan as the country prepares for its first Test match, it was announced Sunday.
The war-torn nation was awarded Test status in June, along with Ireland.
The appointment was announced on Twitter by the Afghanistan Cricket Board.
The former opening batsman and medium-fast bowler, who retired in 2002, had previous coaching spells with Zimbabwe, Ireland and the West Indies.
Simmons will now join the Afghanistan squad in Dubai as it prepares for a limited-overs series against Zimbabwe in Sharjah in February.
Afghanistan will play their first Test match against India, where they play the majority of their home games, although a date has yet to be announced.
They are seen as having a promising future with a talented bowling attack led by 19-year-old Rashid Khan.
Ex-Windies all-rounder Simmons becomes Afghan coach
FE Team | Published: December 31, 2017 23:32:11
Ex-Windies all-rounder Simmons becomes Afghan coach
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