Scandal-ridden Yorkshire appoint black coach

LONDON. — Yorkshire have appointed former West Indies all-rounder Ottis Gibson as their new head coach on a three-year deal.

Gibson, 52, will take charge at the end of February and replaces Andrew Gale, who was sacked during the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal.

The former West Indies and South Africa head coach will report to interim managing director Darren Gough.

“I’m extremely honoured and excited to be given the opportunity,” said Gibson.

The ex-England and Bangladesh bowling coach added: “This is one of the most prestigious roles in English county cricket, and I am really looking forward to working with this talented group of players to take the club forward.

“I’ve spoken at length with Goughy about the direction the club is heading in and I’m excited to be a part of that future.”

Gibson will have overall responsibility for the performance and management of the first team and will be supported by two assistant coaches who will be appointed shortly.

The former Durham, Glamorgan and Leicestershire player will join Yorkshire once his contract with the Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League finishes next month.

Gough, who became interim managing director in December, said: “Ottis becoming head coach is an important moment for Yorkshire County Cricket Club, and we are very happy he has become part of the team.

“Ottis is one of the best coaches in the world and will be a fantastic addition. His knowledge, commitment, experience and cricket knowhow will be vital for us as we move into pre-season and get ourselves up and running.

“We were absolutely blown away by the level of interest and quality of candidates for this role, but I have no doubt he’s the best person for the job and will pick up the challenge with relish.”

Lord Patel, chair of Yorkshire, added: “Ottis’ playing and coaching credentials speak for themselves and he has had a distinguished career performing at the highest level.

“His character and his commitment to buying into the process that we are going through at Yorkshire County Cricket Club shone through in our discussions.

“He is someone I know will encourage dialogue and help foster a culture of inclusion at the club, as well as supporting and developing the world-class talent we have here and pushing them to the next level.” — BBC Sport.