(Photo: Getty Images)
By Adam Ellis
Somerset have confirmed Matt Maynard will leave his role as director of cricket as the club faces relegation to Division Two of the County Championship.
Maynard signed a two-year contract extension in 2016 but reasons for the county’s ‘shortcomings’ were cited as being down to Maynard combining the director of cricket and head coach role after the club conducted a season review.
A statement on the club’s website read: “Somerset County Cricket Club’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.”
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.”
Somerset are currently on course to beat relegation rivals Middlesex at Taunton, with the visitors trailing by 301 runs with six wickets remaining.
While Hampshire‘s match at Edgbaston is due for a pitch inspection this morning after heavy rainfall.
