Tuesday 30 September 2014 21:51, UK
Somerset have appointed Matthew Maynard as their new Director of Cricket.
The 48-year-old replaces Dave Nosworthy, who has returned to South Africa, and he has been chosen for the job ahead of former England coach Ashley Giles.
Maynard spent the whole of his 20-year playing career with Glamorgan for whom he made 395 first-class appearances and scored nearly 25,000 runs at an average of 42.53.
He led the Welsh side to the County Championship title in 1997 and also played in four Test matches between 1988 and 1994 as well as 14 one-day internationals between 1994 and 2000.
Maynard was appointed as England assistant coach in 2004 and held the post until 2007.
He then enjoyed considerable success coaching in South Africa and led the Nashua Titans to both the domestic four-day and T20 titles in 2012, earning him the Coach of the Year award from Cricket South Africa.
Maynard said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as the Director of Cricket at Somerset CCC. It’s a huge honour.
“It will be a new challenge for me and one that I am looking forward to very much. I’m very excited about being involved with such a talented group of players and I can’t wait to get started.”
Chief executive Guy Lavender said: “We are delighted that Matt has been appointed as our Director of Cricket and he will have direct responsibility for coaching the 1st XI. His track record speaks for itself and he has a wealth of leadership experience, coaching knowledge and passion for the game.
“I have every confidence that he will build on our strong foundations and the winter period provides a great opportunity for him to prepare the squad for a successful 2015. I know he will receive a very warm welcome from all the coaching and playing staff, as well as our members and supporters.”
