Uganda cricket launches search for new head coach after Sharma exit

The Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) has officially begun the search for a new head coach for the national men’s team, following the departure of Abhay Sharma, who left the role in October 2025.

Applications for the high-profile position opened on Monday and will close on February 10, 2026, with the successful candidate set to lead the Cricket Cranes through a busy 2026 international calendar.

Sharma, appointed in April 2024, will be remembered for a historic achievement: guiding Uganda to its first-ever ICC Men’s T20 World Cup appearance. Despite this milestone, his tenure ended after he indicated he could not commit to being based in Uganda long-term, a requirement for the role moving forward.

"Cricket Uganda and Abhay Sharma mutually agreed to part ways due to his limited availability to remain in the country on a sustained basis," the association stated, emphasising the need for a coach who can oversee ongoing player development and programme implementation.

According to the advertised vacancy, the new head coach will be appointed on a full-time, fixed-term contract and must be based in Kampala. Responsibilities will include leading the team in ICC and regional competitions, managing coaching staff, driving high-performance culture, and overseeing player development from U-19 to senior level.

Candidates are expected to hold a Level Three coaching accreditation from a recognised cricket body such as the ICC, ECB, or Cricket Australia, and have at least 10 years of professional cricket experience. Preference will be given to applicants with experience in associate cricket pathways, international coaching exposure, and a proven record in talent development.

The search marks a crucial phase for Ugandan cricket as it builds on the momentum of its maiden T20 World Cup qualification and looks toward future international challenges.