Matt Maynard
Somerset’s director of cricket to leave the county
SOMERSET are on the hunt for a new director of cricket with Matthew Maynard leaving Taunton after three years.
Maynard, 51, signed a two-year contract extension in 2016 but leaves Somerset after a poor season.
The county are now planning to bring in a new head coach alongside the director of cricket role in 2018.
Somerset secured their Division One safety with a win over last year’s champions Middlesex yesterday.
A club statement read: “Somerset’s annual cricket review was recently completed in order to fully understand the effectiveness of the existing cricket structure.
“This review identified shortcomings within the structure, and in particular the limitations presented by having one individual combining the dual roles of director of cricket and head coach.
“The decision has therefore been taken to separate these two roles, and this change will see Matt Maynard’s amicable departure from the club.”
Former Glamorgan and England batsman Maynard almost led Somerset to their first County Championship crown last year, but they were pipped to the title on the final day of the season by Middlesex.
Commenting on his departure, Maynard said: “It will be with a heavy heart when I leave this unique cricket club after the End of Season Dinner. I have thoroughly enjoyed my three years in Taunton and would like to thank all the players, support staff, committee and Members for their support during my tenure.
“We came so close to securing the Holy Grail last season, but it was not to be. With the enormously talented young players at the club, along with the quality senior players, I’m sure success and silverware will come in the not too distant future.”