Justin Langer has been appointed as the new head coach of the London Spirit in The Hundred, succeeding fellow Australian Trevor Bayliss, who vacated the position after three years. The Hundred is a cricket competition where each team faces 100 balls per innings. Langer, a former Test opener and coach of the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League, returns to Lord’s, having played and captained Middlesex in the late 1990s and early 2000s. In addition to his new role, he is the head coach of the IPL team Lucknow Super Giants and was previously considered for coaching India’s national team.
Bayliss departed after a less successful tenure following an initial strong season. Langer’s track record includes leading Australia to Ashes victories and coaching the T20 World Cup-winning side in 2021. His task is seen as challenging, given the franchise’s underwhelming performances under previous coaches, including the late Shane Warne. While the men’s team has had its struggles, the women’s team recently claimed a championship, adding pressure on Langer to deliver results.
Expressing enthusiasm for his new role, Langer stated his eagerness to collaborate with the talented players and coaches in The Hundred. London Spirit’s general manager, Fraser Stewart, noted Langer’s excellence in the competitive interview process. Langer’s schedule will include the IPL season from March to May, followed by The Hundred in July and August.
