Former England captain Michael Vaughan has backed Marcus North to be a success after being confirmed in his new role as England selector.
The 46-year-old has operated as a director of cricket at Durham since 2018 and previously interviewed for the same role four years ago, with Rob Key winning out in the final stages of the process.
But North, alongside Key, will now have a major influence in the way England men’s teams are selected, with the former Australia star replacing Luke Wright, who stepped down at the end of the Ashes defeat in Australia.
North, who played 21 Tests for Australia, underlined what a “tremendous honour” it would be to take on such a role.
“I am excited to contribute to the continued development of the England Men’s teams,” North said. “Having spent the past several years working closely within the county game, I have seen first-hand the strength and depth of talent across the domestic system. I’m looking forward to working closely with the counties in identifying, supporting and selecting players who can thrive at International level.
“The opportunity to help shape the future of England Men’s teams is one I’m incredibly passionate about. I’m excited to get started working closely with Rob, Brendon, Ben, Harry and the wider performance team in building squads that can compete consistently and successfully across all formats.
And Vaughan believes North has the experience and expertise to make a major contribution towards the national team.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Durham and would like to thank Tim Bostock for handing me the opportunity back in 2018. I will be forever grateful for the support shown by the Board, players, staff and supporters over the past eight years.”
“I think he [North] is a good appointment,” former England captain Vaughan told The Overlap and Betfair’s Stick to Cricket show.
“He’s been here in the UK for a long period of time. I think he was director of South Shields Cricket Club, where he developed a great local club and an indoor school. He played county cricket for six counties, so he knows county cricket inside out.
“He’s been a director of cricket at Durham and done pretty well, despite them being relegated last year. He’s a good operator.
“He’s close to Ben Stokes, which is obviously a good relationship to have. I think he’ll do some good work for English cricket.”
