Paul Farbrace has emerged as a target for Surrey © Getty Images
Surrey’s loss could become England’s loss as the club seek a successor to Graham Ford as head coach. ESPNcricinfo understands that Paul Farbrace, England’s assistant coach, has emerged as a top target to take charge at Surrey and has already been contacted with a view to discussing the role.
Farbrace has been a key figure in the England revival. It was during his interim period in charge that the England limited-overs squad reinvented themselves after a wretched World Cup performance and, with his relaxed yet high-energy approach, he has played a huge role in improving the environment around the squad. Liked, trusted and respected by the players, Farbrace is the dominant figure in training sessions and has been credited with creating a dressing room environment that is relaxed but focused. His departure would be a considerable loss.
But, like many of the England backroom staff, Farbrace has wearied of the relentless schedule that sees them spend more than 300 days each year in hotels. While he may feel that this offer comes a little early – the England camp are quietly excited about the possibilities this side has of rising up the Test rankings and competing in global events such as the 2017 Champions Trophy and the 2019 World Cup – it is likely to be sweetened by the prospect of working at a large club with a group of highly talented young players and having the opportunity to spend far more of the year in one place. Surrey are also one of very few clubs who could exceed the salary offered by England.
If Farbrace declines Surrey’s interest, Graham Thorpe is among those likely to be targeted by Surrey. Thorpe, a former Surrey player and currently the ECB’s lead batting coach, is another who has tired of touring. Though his current role allows him to remain in England for much of the year, a chance to return to The Oval might prove hard to refuse.
Meanwhile, Ottis Gibson, England’s bowling coach, was informally approached by Glamorgan with a view to applying for the coaching role vacated by Toby Radford, but is understood to have declined.
George Dobell is a senior correspondent at ESPNcricinfo
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Source: ESPN Crickinfo