Pybus named Middlesex coach

19 February 2007

Richard Pybus © Getty Images

Middlesex have appointed Richard Pybus as their first team coach for the next three seasons.

Pybus will join the county in early April from South African side the Titans who recently won the Provincial Championship.

The 42-year-old, who previously had two spells as Pakistan coach, said: “We have a fantastic challenge this coming season to not only get Middlesex back into Div.1 of the County Championship but to work toward becoming the dominant side in the short form of the game.

“It is great news for Middlesex that (Andrew) Strauss, (Ed) Joyce and (Jamie) Dalrymple are part of England’s World Cup campaign, buoyed by the wonderful comeback in the CB series in Australia.

“This experience and the self belief that comes from it will be beneficial in the dressing room next season, this allied to the strengthening up of the bowling attack with the signings of (Chaminda) Vaas and (Murali) Kartik to go with Middlesex’s depth in the batting department gives the squad good balance in all departments.”

Middlesex’s director of cricket, John Emburey, added: “We have managed to capture the signature of a world class, international coach in Richard. He was the outstanding person from an excellent short list.

John Emburey will work with Richard Pybus © Getty Images

“We are truly fortunate to have him on board, and we are very confident that he will be a major asset to the club’s ambitions for playing success. His credentials are second to none.”

Middlesex chief executive, Vinny Codrington, expressed his gratitude to the Titans for their co-operation in releasing Pybus from his contract.

“It was evident from my conversations with Elise Lombard, the Titans CEO, that they were very sorry to be losing someone who was an integral part of their family and their success, but that they were not going to stand in Richard’s way due to his desire to return to the UK.

“Both she and the Titans have conducted themselves in an outstanding and thoroughly professional manner and we are very grateful for their help and co-operation.”