Ashes-winning coach Darren Lehmann, who has been handed a contract extension until June 30 2017, took over a side plagued by scandal.
The “homeworkgate” affair which led to one-Test bans for four players on Australia’s ill-fated tour of India in 2013 was followed by coach Mickey Arthur’s sacking a few months later.
In stepped Lehmann, who within seven months had reclaimed the Ashes in Perth en route to a five-nil series whitewash.
A hard-fought series victory in South Africa in March followed and with a World Cup and Ashes tour on the horizon in 2015, Cricket Australia on Friday extended the popular Lehmann’s contract which had been due to end in mid-2016.
CA’s performance manager Pat Howard says Lehmann’s influence on the team had been immense since assuming the position in June 2013.
“He has helped create an excellent team environment that has seen players thrive,” Howard said on Friday in a statement.
Lehmann said of his new deal: “Cricket Australia wanted some continuity and I was happy enough to accept it.”
The former Test batsman is proud of his coaching achievements.
“I want to continue with the work we have done on and off the field with the team, as I feel we are heading in the right direction,” the 44-year-old said.
“I will be judged by results.”
Australia and New Zealand will host the World Cup in February and March 2015, following Australia’s four-Test series at home against India.
Lehmann’s side will also play Test series in West Indies and England next year.
It’s fitting that Lehmann’s players will spend the weekend with their families in Dubai, ahead of the first Test against Pakistan starting on Wednesday.
Asked what has been the biggest change in the team since his arrival, Lehmann says it’s the “togetherness” of the side.
And it’s certainly something that appears to have been lacking before his arrival. Skipper Michael Clarke said in a GQ magazine interview the team was at rock bottom in India in 2013, losing four-nil.
“The togetherness of the group as a whole, support staff and players,” Lehmann said on Friday.
“The way we all get on so well with the families and look after each other outside the game.
“They’re all really talented cricketers and we’ve got some great people involved in the game.
“That’s been the biggest stride. The other is the improvement of our skill level.”
Australia are second in the ICC Test rankings and first in one-day cricket.
“If we’re being honest, we’re about where we should be,” he said.
The laid-back coach says his targets are nothing more specific than winning games.
“This game is about results, but it’s also about developing the right people,” he said.
DARREN LEHMANN’S RECORD AS AUSTRALIA’S TEST COACH
* Played: 13
* Won: 7
* Lost: 4
* Drawn: 4
*Series results: 0-3 v England in England, 5-0 v England in Australia, 2-1 v South Africa in South Africa.
