Paul Nixon says he is relishing the chance to work with cricket superstars Chris Gayle and Dale Steyn in the Caribbean Premier League.

The Cumbrian has been appointed head coach of the star-studded Jamaica Tallawahs side for the July tournament.

It will be the former England wicketkeeper's second stint in charge of the Jamaican team, after he led them to victory in the inaugural event in 2013.

Nixon was then replaced by Mickey Arthur, but has now returned to the job after the latter was appointed head coach of Pakistan.

Nixon, from Langwathby, says he can't wait to get involved with the likes of big-hitting West Indies icon Gayle, South Africa paceman Steyn and Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara.

"I've been chatting to Jamaica over the last few weeks, and things moved forward when it was confirmed Mickey Arthur had got the Pakistan job," 45-year-old Nixon told The Cumberland News.

"It's a good side, which has already been picked, and we have got the likes of Chris Gayle, Kumar Sangakkara, Shakib Al Hasan, Andre Russell and Dale Steyn.

"It's a fantastic squad, and fingers crossed we do well. Last time there we won it, so let's try and make that a habit."

Nixon has great T20 pedigree, having enjoyed plenty of success at the shortest format of the game during his career with Leicestershire.

Jamaica's general manager Mohammad Khan described the Cumbrian as an "outstanding candidate" to lead the team along with captain Gayle.

Nixon said he would try to create the right environment to allow his illustrious squad to flourish.

"I will try and create a growth mindset, get the players to take ownership and get an emotional connection as we get everybody together," he said.

"Look at what Leicester City did with that sort of unity and togetherness.

"It's my job to make it the best possible environment, and step in when needed.

"You don't push anything onto these sort of players. Let them come to you. It's all about the players, what they want."

Nixon also expects the Caribbean event to fuel his coaching ambitions back home.

"I went for the Essex job [last winter] but unfortunately didn't get it as they went with Chris Silverwood. That was the first coaching role I've gone for, and I enjoyed the interview process and learned a lot.

"I've been working with my foundation, which is going very well, but I also feel it's time for me to do things I really love and where I can make a difference."

Nixon flies to Jamaica in late June and the Tallawahs' first fixture is against the Guyana Amazon Warriors on July 15. They play four games at Sabina Park and a further two in Fort Lauderdale in the USA, before the play-off section starts.