Darren Sammy has been appointed head coach of the Peshawar Zalmi franchise in the Pakistan Super League after stepping down as captain in what has been described as an overhaul of the club’s management.

Wahab Riaz will be the full-time captain, while Mohammad Akram, the now-former head coach will continue as the director of cricket as well as the bowling coach.

Sammy who was recently made an honorary citizen of Pakistan because of his immense popularity might still play for the franchise but according to Akram, the St Lucian’s primary role will be as head coach.

“His contract is already as a playing coach, so if the committee feels he's in the form to play, he can take the field as well. But from today, he is head coach first," Akram said.

For his part, Sammy said the decision to take on the role as head coach was a difficult one.

"As a player, it's always difficult to make the transition," he said.

“The truth is the last two years I've played not fully fit. This year, I feel I'm ready to go, but if there's one thing that made Peshawar Zalmi what it is, my message is to do what's necessary, what's best for the team. As a leader, I feel I've demonstrated that.”