Darren Lehmann quits coaching roles with Bulls and Heat to become commentator with ABC

Darren Lehmann has undertaken a new venture after leaving his coaching roles with the Queensland Bulls and Brisbane Heat.

Former national coach Darren Lehmann has parted ways the Queensland Bulls and Brisbane Heat to join ABC Sport’s cricket commentary team.

After missing out on the head coaching role with the Adelaide Strikers to ex-Test captain Tim Paine, Lehmann had been expected to continue his job as an assistant coach with the Bulls and Heat.

However, the 54-year-old mentor and former Australian batsman has instead accepted an offer to commentate for the ABC.

“I’ve had a great time over the journey, with so many fond memories from that time,’’ Lehmann said.

“I wish nothing but the best for the future for all at QC (Queensland Cricket) and the Heat and thank each and every member of staff and the playing group for making my time at QC so enjoyable and fulfilling.”

Darren Lehmann has quit his assistant coaching roles with the Heat and the Bulls. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

Lehmann led the Bulls to the 2011-12 Sheffield Shield title and guided the Heat to BBL glory the following year.

In 2013, he took over as coach of the Australian team before returning to the Heat as head coach in 2019.

Two years later he stepped back to an assistant coaching role and had a similar position with the Bulls.

QC chief executive officer Terry Svenson said: “Throughout his long involvement with us, whether as a team coach with the Bulls and the Heat, or assisting individual players with their development, Darren has been a positive and proactive influence on cricket in the state.

“Being part of the group that won the BBL last summer is a fitting way to farewell him, and while we were looking forward to having him with us again this summer, we wish him every success in the commentary box with ABC Sport.”

QC will in “due course” announce a replacement for Lehmann on a Bulls and Heat coaching staff headed by South African Johan Botha.

Originally published as Darren Lehmann quits coaching roles with Bulls and Heat to become commentator with ABC