News

Logie quits Bermuda

Gus Logie has unsurprisingly decided not to renew his contract as the national coach following the team's loss of one-day international status last month

Cricinfo staff
06-May-2009
Gus Logie, the Bermuda coach, has unexpectedly decided not to renew his contract as the national coach following the team's loss of one-day international status last month. His contract expires in September, and Bermuda will now begin the tricky task of finding a replacement prepared to take on a team in turmoil.
"I would like to thank the Bermuda Cricket Board executives and staff, the Bermuda government, players and the Bermuda community for their support and encouragement over the past four years," he said. "I have enjoyed my time here and wish Bermuda all the best for the future."
His decision comes as no surprise. He revealed the level of his disappointment to Cricinfo during the recent ICC World Cup Qualifiers in South Africa, in an interview which surprised and angered the players, when he attacked the team's lack of motivation and desire. It was a tough pill to swallow, but Logie remained unrepentant and also rejected calls for his resignation. "I wasn't over critical and I told the players this to their faces and so they know that," he said at the time. "What do you want me to tell them? That they are very professional and that they were focused and lost games the way they did? I met with them last night and told them exactly what I said in the interview."
The news is yet another bitter blow for Bermudan cricket, however. Since their dismal performance in South Africa, they have lost their best bowler, Dwayne Leverock, who announced his retirement; Kevin Hurdle has been banned following a row over smoking; and both Lionel Cann and Janeiro Tucker have also retired.
To continue the steady flow of disappointing news, yesterday, George O'Brien, the fast bowler, was charged with using a Taser stun-gun on what was described as a "love rival". He will stand trial in August.
The biggest question which remains for Bermuda in the near future, however, is who will have the gumption and spirit to coach Bermuda and commit to the job on a long-term basis. "The board is naturally disappointed that that Gus has decided to move on," said Reginald Pearman.
"He is a thorough professional and an ideal role model for all our players. He is truly a world-class coach who has accomplished a lot for cricket in Bermuda. Despite all his achievements he is a very humble and personable individual and he will be sorely missed."