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Shane Watson quits as head coach of San Francisco Unicorns after three-year-long stint

Soumyajit Dutta

Shane Watson quits as MLC coach [Source: @kannappa_89/X.com]Shane Watson quits as MLC coach [Source: @kannappa_89/X.com]

Australia legend Shane Watson, a star all-rounder for the national cricket team, has decided to part ways with the San Francisco Unicorns after three years as head coach of the Major League Cricket franchise. 

While the Unicorns are yet to announce Watson’s successor, the franchise acknowledged his busy schedule with ongoing commentary commitments.

Why did Shane Watson leave the Unicorns?

As understood by the statement from the Unicorns, Shane Watson’s decision to leave the franchise was influenced by the team’s desire for a long-term coach who could be available year-round. 

"In an effort to strengthen the Unicorns' long-term strategy, the organization is shifting to a year-round coaching model. Watson's ongoing commentary commitments and the rapid growth of his acclaimed performance coaching brand, BEON Performance, prevent him from taking on a full-time role with the Unicorns," the Unicorns said in a statement.

Notably, Watson’s tenure with the Unicorns was solid, if not a title-winning success. Under his guidance, the Unicorns finished fifth out of six teams in the inaugural edition and reached the playoffs in both 2024 and 2025. In 2024, they played the final against Washington Freedom but unfortunately lost the match.

Unicorns boss praises Watson's stint

Unicorn CEO David White praised Watson’s dedication to the team throughout the three seasons. 

"Shane was the natural choice to be 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 across his three seasons in charge, and the Unicorns wish him every success in his future endeavors," David said.

Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, Watson has taken up coaching roles with various franchise teams. He was notably the assistant coach of Delhi Capitals in the 2022 and 2023 IPL seasons and served as head coach of Quetta Gladiators in the 2024 Pakistan Super League.