Shane Bond appointed as Birmingham Phoenix men’s head coach

Published - 06 Nov 2025, 12:51 IST | Updated - 06 Nov 2025, 12:52 IST

Birmingham Phoenix have appointed Shane Bond as their new men’s head coach on a two-year deal. The former New Zealand fast bowler will replace compatriot Daniel Vettori, who is set to take over at the newly rebranded Sunrisers Leeds as Andrew Flintoff’s successor.

Bond, a highly regarded coach in the global franchise circuit, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has served as a bowling coach in the IPL for nearly a decade, working with the Mumbai Indians (2015–2022) and Rajasthan Royals (since 2023). In addition, he has held head coaching roles with the Paarl Royals in the SA20 and Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL).

His appointment represents the first major move under Birmingham Phoenix’s new ownership structure, with the franchise now jointly managed by Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Knighthead Capital, the American investment firm that also owns Birmingham City Football Club.

James Thomas, who became performance director in June, played a central role in the recruitment process following Vettori’s departure and has emerged as an influential figure in the franchise’s strategic direction.

"We're thrilled to appoint Shane as head coach. His elite coaching experience, proven success in global franchise leagues, and passion for player development will be a major asset,” said Thomas as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

"Throughout a competitive selection process, his vision, tactical insight, and ability to build high-performing environments really stood out. He understands the demands of modern franchise cricket and what it takes to perform at the highest level,” he added.

Bond had a brief stint as an overseas player for Warwickshire in 2002, taking 12 wickets in four appearances. He said that experience gave him a strong connection with the club and the city of Birmingham.

"I know what it means to walk out onto the Edgbaston pitch and represent the people in the stands. I want to instil that into our players and create an environment which breeds success… I want my team to play a fearless, exciting brand of cricket which ultimately delivers success for the Birmingham Phoenix,” said Bond.

Bond’s appointment strengthens Birmingham Phoenix’s New Zealand connection, following Vettori’s overseas signings last season of Trent Boult, Adam Milne, and Tim Southee. It remains unclear whether any of these players will return for the 2026 season, as teams are allowed a maximum of four combined retention and new signings ahead of the inaugural auction in March.

The men’s Hundred has already seen significant coaching movement as new investors leave their mark on the tournament. Andy Flower has joined London Spirit from Trent Rockets, Tom Moody has departed Oval Invincibles for a global role with Lucknow Super Giants (including the Manchester franchise), and Flintoff has stepped down from Sunrisers after declining a new contract.

Vettori is expected to be formally confirmed as Flintoff’s replacement in the coming days, while former Hampshire coach Adi Birrell is set to take charge of Sunrisers’ women, having coached Southern Brave men in 2025.