Legendary former all-rounder from Australia Shane Watson has called time on his tenure as head coach of San Francisco Unicorns ahead of the fourth edition of Major League Cricket (MLC). He coached the team in the first three editions of the tournament from 2023 to 2025.
The Unicorns announced the development in a statement, but did not mention who would replace the 44-year-old. The franchise stated that it is transitioning to a year-round coaching model, a role that Watson will not be able to fill due to his other commitments.
“In an effort to strengthen the Unicorns’ long-term strategy, the organization is shifting to a year-round coaching model. Watson’s ongoing commentary duties and the rapid growth of his acclaimed performance coaching brand, BEON Performance, are preventing him from taking on a full-time role with the Unicorns,” the franchise said in its statement.
Watson didn’t have a great start to his coaching stint with the Unicorns. In the first edition of the MLC in 2023, they finished fifth, above only the Los Angeles Knight Riders. However, they managed to bounce back strongly and made the play-offs in 2024 and 2025. In 2024, Watson’s men reached the finals, where they lost to Washington Freedom.
It has been a true privilege to lead the San Francisco Unicorns for the past three seasons: Watson
The Ipswich-born player said it has been a privilege for him to serve as head coach of San Francisco Unicorns for the past three editions of the tournament. He shared his gratitude for being able to work in the six-team league with world-class players and young talents.
“It has been a true privilege to lead the San Francisco Unicorns over the past three seasons. I am proud of what we have achieved and grateful for the opportunity to have worked with world-class stars and incredible young talent in Major League Cricket, which continues to be an exciting new frontier for the sport,” said Watson.
Unicorns CEO David White stated that Watson was the logical choice for the head coaching role as they began their journey in the MLC. He thanked Watson for his services and wished him the best of luck in his endeavours.
“Shane was the natural choice to become our first Head Coach, and he played a key role in building the Unicorns from the ground up. We are eternally grateful for Shane’s dedication during his three seasons in charge, and the Unicorns wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors,” said White.
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