SOMERSET CCC have restructured their coaching set up, with Steve Snell to focus on the role of Academy Director and Greg Kennis becoming assistant coach as well as overseeing Second XI cricket, writes Richard Walsh.

The decision comes following an extensive review carried out by director of cricket Andy Hurry and head coach Jason Kerr.

Andy Hurry said: “Over the last few weeks, Jason Kerr and myself have comprehensively reviewed the coaching structure within the club with the intent of best supporting the development of our professional staff, the Academy and the Player Pathway.

“As part of the review, and recognising the value that we place on developing the next generation of Somerset players, Steve Snell’s responsibilities will now have a primary focus on his role as academy director and the specific development of players within the Somerset academy. 

"Within this role he will look to maintain and develop our excellent relationships with our neighbouring counties across the south west, specifically within the Emerging Player and County Age Group Cricket Programmes.

"This change of responsibilities will enable Steve to have a specific focus on how we best support our players of high potential.

"Steve will continue to overlap his primary responsibilities with some specific delivery with the professional playing staff as agreed with Jason Kerr.”

Greg Kennis, 43, played cricket professionally as a batsman for both Surrey and Somerset, for whom he scored 175 against New Zealand back in 1999.

He now joins the club from his position as Somerset Cricket Board head coach. 

Regarding this appointment, Hurry said: “This is recognition for the outstanding work he has delivered over a number of years and the impact he has had in developing the foundation skills across our player pathway both within the Somerset Cricket Board and the club.

"I am pleased to announce that he will move across to the club to fulfil the role as an Assistant coach, with added responsibility to lead and oversee our Second XI cricket from January 1.

Hurry added: “The club have a very healthy record of producing players through the Somerset Pathway and the high percentage of these players in the current squad is a reflection of the success of the system.

"It is paramount that this continues to grow and we feel that this restructure will enable this to happen most effectively.”