New Sussex coach is appointed as county look to compete

Sussex have named their next head coach <i>(Image: SCCC)</i>
Sussex have named their next head coach (Image: SCCC)
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Matt Walker aims to help Sussex compete for trophies after being named as their next head coach.

The former Kent chief and current Warwickshire batting coach will work with director of cricket Paul Farbrace.

Sussex see the appointment as s sign of their continuing ambition, despite financial restrictions.

Walker will take over on November 1 after leaving Warwickshire.

His track record includes Vitality Blast success and Championship promotion during eight years with Kent, as well as a stint with England.

In the official announcement of his appointment, Walker said: "I am incredibly honoured and excited to have been given the opportunity to become Head Coach of Sussex Cricket.

"Sussex is a club I have always admired and one with a proud history. The opportunity to work with this group of players and staff, alongside Paul, was one that really excited me.

"There is already a strong foundation in place and I'm looking forward to building on that as we strive to help Sussex compete for trophies. I can't wait to get started."

Walker is part of the Oval Invincibles coaching set-up as The Hundred gets under way.

Farbrace, who will move into a part-time role, said: "We conducted a thorough three-stage process involving some excellent candidates from across the cricketing world, and Matt consistently impressed throughout. He was the clear choice.

"He has an excellent reputation within the game and brings the experience, energy and enthusiasm we're looking for.

“I'm really looking forward to working alongside him as we tackle the challenges in front of us and build a team capable of competing for trophies."

The appointment of a new head coach was top of Ed Warner’s to-do list as he took over as chairman recently.

Warner said: “Appointing the right head coach was one of the most important decisions we had to make.

"Matt combines an outstanding track record with the leadership, experience and ambition we believe Sussex Cricket needs.

“He impressed us throughout the process, not only with what he has achieved but with his vision for developing players and building successful teams.

"Alongside Paul's continued involvement as director of cricket, this appointment gives us a leadership team with the experience, continuity and ambition to help drive Sussex Cricket forward.

“I'm excited about what Matt, Paul and the wider team can achieve together."

Interim chief executive Mark West added: "Matt's appointment is another important step for Sussex Cricket as we continue strengthening the club both on and off the field.

"He is joining a talented group of players and staff, and we believe he is the right person to help drive the next phase of our cricket programme.

"Our supporters rightly expect us to be ambitious and competitive, and today's appointment reflects that ambition."

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