Simon Cook. (Photo Source: Luke Walker/Getty Images)
Paul Downton has been performing the role of Kent’s director of cricket for the past six years. However, when he revealed his intention to retire, the historic county club were looking for someone to replace him. In the end, the management has zeroed in on former fast bowler Simon Cook to take over the role of Kent’s new director of cricket from October onwards.
Cook, who played for Kent between 2005 and 2012, joined the coaching staff in 2019. In between, he also performed the role of Hong Kong’s head coach and high-performance manager. Cook also coached Kent on an interim basis when they won the One-Day Cup competition in 2022 and when head coach Matt Walker took a leave to work with the Oval Invincibles in the Hundred this year.
“Simon was the outstanding candidate throughout the very rigorous selection process. He provided a compelling and clear vision of how he wants the club to move forward from the pathway to the first XI, allied to a very strong view of the brand of cricket that he wants the club to play,” Kent Cricket’s chair, Simon Philip, was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
“His existing knowledge as player and coach will prove invaluable in delivering his vision. I’m sure that all members and supporters will welcome Simon to his new role.”
In 141 first-class matches, Cook picked up 342 wickets. In List A cricket, he scalped 234 wickets in 190 matches. The 46-year-old also played 73 T20Is and picked up 85 wickets.
Hugh Morris to step down from role of chief executive of Glamorgan after 10 years
Hugh Morris, who previously worked as managing director of England, stepped down from his role as chief executive of Glamorgan after ten years in the job. The 59-year-old was diagnosed with bowel cancer last year and said that he intends to spend more time with his family.
“The time is right for me to spend more time with my family, enjoying other pastimes, and focusing on my ongoing treatment,” Morris said.
“Hugh has served cricket in England and Wales both on and off the field, with extraordinary distinction. Few if any have given what Hugh has, both in terms of impact as well as commitment. To say he has made a difference would not be enough. I know that Hugh has been focused on re-establishing cricket as the national summer sport in Wales and ‘making Wales proud’ of cricket’s achievements on and off the field. Over many decades he has made both Wales and England very proud and given more than anyone could ever ask. He has been exceptional in every sense,” Richard Thompson, ECB chair said.