Kent in limbo as Donald arrival blocked

KENT have been left frustrated, and without a permanent assistant coach for this summer, after Allan Donald’s arrival at the county was delayed until next year.

Donald, 50, was named as assistant to new head coach Matt Walker in January though work permit issues delayed his arrival.

Former Yorkshire coach Jason Gillespie, above, was recruited as a temporary replacement with the hope that Donald would return during the season but the South African must obtain a Level 3 coaching qualification.

Walker said: “It’s frustrating that a coach of Allan’s calibre and experience is unable to join us sooner but Jason Gillespie has slotted in superbly as our interim assistant coach.

“Jason will return to Australia midway through the season and we will announce a second interim coach to cover for Allan in due course.”

In a weird twist, Donald will be able to work with Sri Lanka at the forthcoming Champions Trophy tournament in England as visa requirements only apply to employers in the UK.

Donald said: “I’m 100 per cent committed to Kent despite the frustration of not being able to join Matt Walker and the boys as planned.

“In the meantime, I’m working towards my Level 3 and this opportunity to work with Sri Lanka means I can return to coaching before joining Kent in time for next season.

“I’m following this season closely and hoping the boys can get promotion and compete in white-ball cricket.”