ECB ropes in Chris Silverwood as men's head-coach: Details here
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has appointed Chris Silverwood as the new head coach of the men's national team. He has been promoted from the role of the bowling coach and would take the place of former coach, Trevor Bayliss, who stepped down from the role following the conclusion of the 2019 season. Here are further details on this.
Silverwood pips Stewart and Kirsten to grab this role
There were a number of contenders, including big names like former England wicket-keeper batsman Alec Stewart, along with World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten of South Africa. However, Alec Stewart pulled out of the race, while Kirsten was reported to have given a great interview. Nonetheless, the selectors relied on local talent, as Silverwood made the cut.
Silverwood, "The standout candidate": Ashley Giles
Following the appointment of Silverwood, ECB managing director, Ashley Giles, termed him as "the standout candidate". He said that Silverwood had what it takes, besides pointing out his relationship with team skippers, Joe Root and Eoin Morgan. "He has performed exceptionally well during his role as an assistant coach and has the ultimate respect of the players that have worked with him," said Giles.
Giles delighted with Silverwood's strategy presented during interview
"Chris demonstrated in his interview a clear understanding and strategy of how both the red and white-ball teams need to evolve. He has some detailed thoughts on what it will take to win the Ashes in Australia and win major ICC white-ball tournaments," added Giles.
Silverwood has great domestic record as coach
Before joining England as the bowling coach, Silverwood had served Essex County Cricket Club as their bowling coach in 2010, before being promoted as their head coach in 2016. Following his appointment as the head coach, Essex were promoted to the First Division, while they went on to win the County Championship and the Vitality T20 Blast, the next season.
Silverwood aims to continue coaching with same intensity
"I aim to continue the great work that has been done over the past five years and build our future. I have enjoyed working with the players over the past two seasons and developing the best crop of talent in the English game," said Silverwood.
Silverwood eyes great start to New Zealand tour
The opening stint of Silverwood as England's coach would be the tour of New Zealand, starting November 1 with the T20Is, followed by two Tests, starting November 21. It would be followed by a South Africa tour. "The hard work starts now, and I am confident we can make a positive impact during our winter tours of New Zealand and South Africa," concluded Silverwood.
