Somerset have unveiled Matthew Maynard as their new director of cricket, with the former England batsman beating Ashley Giles to the role.
Maynard described his appointment as "a huge honour," while Somerset chief executive Guy Lavender – who wasted little time in replacing the outgoing Dave Nosworthy – said: "His track record speaks for itself".
Nosworthy left the club following the final game of the season last week, two years into a three-year deal, after his departure was confirmed in late August.
Somerset interviewed a number of candidates for the role – and former England coach Giles was understood to be a leading contender.
But Somerset have instead opted for Maynard. who has recently coached Nashua Titans in South Africa and St Lucia Zouks in the Caribbean Premier League.
The 48-year-old, who spent his whole playing career with Glamorgan, appeared in four Tests and 14 one-day internationals – and later served as assistant coach with England.
He quit as director of cricket at Glamorgan in 2010, claiming his position was "untenable" following the county's decision to appoint Alviro Petersen – who spent the 2013 and 2014 seasons with Somerset – as captain against his wishes.
Maynard moved to South Africa, where, in his first year in charge of Titans, he led them to both the domestic four-day and 20-over titles, before being named coach of the year by Cricket SA.
"I am absolutely delighted to be appointed director of cricket at Somerset," said Maynard. "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."
Lavender said: "We are delighted that Matt has been appointed as our director of cricket, and he will have direct responsibility for coaching the first 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."
Giles, having missed out on another top job following his disappointment and not being given the England job earlier this year, has quickly emerged as a frontrunner for the head coach role at Lancashire.
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