SOMERSET County Cricket Club have appointed Matthew Maynard as their new Director of Cricket.

The 48-year-old former England and Glamorgan batsman takes over from Dave Nosworthy, who left his position last month, two years into a three year contract. 

Maynard was appointed as England assistant coach in 2004 - a post he held until 2007 - before enjoying considerable success coaching in South Africa.

In 2012, his first year in charge of Nashua Titans, he led them to both the domestic four day and T20 titles and was named Coach of the Year by Cricket South Africa.

Maynard said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as the Director of Cricket at Somerset CCC. It’s a huge honour. It will be a new challenge for me and one that I am looking forward to very much. I’m very excited about being involved with such a talented group of players and I can’t wait to get started.”

Chief Executive Guy Lavender said: “We are delighted that Matt has been appointed as our Director of Cricket and he will have direct responsibility for coaching the 1st XI. His track record speaks for itself and he has a wealth of leadership experience, coaching knowledge and passion for the game.

"I have every confidence that he will build on our strong foundations and the winter period provides a great opportunity for him to prepare the squad for a successful 2015. I know he will receive a very warm welcome from all the coaching and playing staff, as well as our Members and supporters.”

Maynard has vast experience and enjoyed a long and successful playing career in the English First Class game - and has since experienced considerable success as a coach.

He spent the whole of his 20 year playing career with Glamorgan where he made 395 First Class appearances scoring nearly 25,000 runs at an average of 42.53.

He also led the Welsh side to the County Championship title in 1997.

Maynard played in four Test Matches between 1988 and 1994 and 14 One Day Internationals between 1994 and 2000.