At a glance
- Michael Vaughan criticises ECB delay
- England still searching for new selector
- Ashes review follows 4-1 Australia defeat
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has launched a sharp criticism of the England and Wales Cricket Board’s prolonged search for a new national selector, insisting the delay has become “ridiculous” with the County Championship season already in full swing.
England are still without a permanent successor to Luke Wright, who announced in January that he would step down following the T20 World Cup in March.The ECB finally held interviews for the role this week after a lengthy recruitment process.
Michael Vaughan Slams ECB Over Selector Delay
Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Vaughan questioned why the ECB had not completed the appointment before the start of the domestic season.
“It’s ridiculous how they’re announcing a selector so late,” Vaughan said on the Stick to Cricket podcast.
The former skipper believes the successful candidate should already have spent weeks travelling around the country monitoring county performances and building relationships ahead of a crucial international summer.
“I wanted the selector there on 1 April, going out, having a look, gathering information,” Vaughan added.
Vaughan also pointed to the length of time the ECB has had to organise a replacement after Wright’s departure became public knowledge during England’s difficult winter in Australia.
“Luke Wright quit at the back end of Australia. We knew, didn’t we? It’s a long time, four months, to find someone.”
ECB Review Followed 4-1 Ashes Defeat
England are expected to announce their squad for the opening Test against New Zealand within the next two weeks, increasing the spotlight on the ongoing search.
The delay comes in the aftermath of England’s bruising 4-1 Ashes defeat against Australia, which prompted an internal review led by ECB chief executive Richard Gould. The review ultimately resulted in managing director Rob Key and head coach Brendon McCullum remaining in their positions.
The ECB officially advertised the selector vacancy in March before closing applications in April, with around 80 candidates believed to have applied for the influential role.
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England Continue Search For New National Selector
In the meantime, the ECB has continued to rely on its network of scouts to monitor the county game while also introducing a new county insight group made up of county coaches and senior ECB figures.
Former England fast bowlers Steven Finn and Darren Gough are among the names linked with the position.
Whoever lands the role will have significant influence across England’s player pathway including involvement in senior and Lions squad selection, consultation on final XIs and oversight of the national scouting structure.
With England preparing for a pivotal home summer, the ECB will now be eager to conclude a process that has already drawn criticism from one of the game’s most outspoken former captains.
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