Matt Walker appointed Kent coach, Allan Donald named assistant coach

Kent have announced former player and assistant coach Matt Walker as their new Head Coach, replacing Jimmy Adams who is expected to take up a position with the West Indies. Former South Africa fast-bowler Allan Donald has been named as Walker’s assistant.

Walker said: “‘Having grown up as a Kent player and played 16 seasons for this great county, I am extremely honoured and proud to be offered the Head Coach role. We have an exciting and talented squad that I believe is capable of challenging across all three formats. I am relishing this opportunity and hope will work with Sam Northeast and Allan Donald to bring success to the club.”

While Donald will certainly provide guidance and knowledge to the likes of fast bowler Matt Coles, his remit will be wider than just Kent’s bowling attack. “I would like to thank the club for giving me this opportunity to work with this very talented group as the assistant coach,” said Donald.

George Kennedy, Kent’s Chairman, said: “Matt was the outstanding candidate from the recruitment process. He is a modern, innovative coach who is highly regarded by players and peers as shown by the work he has done with Kent and England. His knowledge and passion for the club is an added bonus. The addition of Allan Donald brings a fresh face and new voice to the staff who we hope will also help bring the best out of our seam attack.”