Graham Gooch stands down from Essex role

Graham Gooch is stepping down from his role as first-team batting coach for Essex to focus on his England responsibilities, the club announced today.

The former England opening batsman, who represented Essex between 1973 and 1997, will stay in his role as club ambassador alongside his position as national batting coach.

Gooch said in a statement: "I'm sad that I am unable to continue my coaching duties with Essex.

"I never wanted to relinquish this role at the club but as my England commitments have grown it is now impossible to do justice to both roles.

"I look forward to supporting Essex cricket in the future through my work as the club ambassador."

Essex also announced Matt Walker will join the coaching staff as the assistant to head coach Paul Grayson.

Walker joined Essex in 2009 from Kent and whilst he will still be registered as a player for the club it is expected he will take more of a coaching role.

Grayson revealed he is positive about the changes in the set-up.

"We want to thank Graham for his services with the coaching side of the team," Grayson said.

"He has been a massive support to both the playing squad and myself but we understand the England requirements he has.

"I am really excited to be working alongside Matt Walker as he has vast knowledge of the game and I know he is looking forward to this next chapter of his career."

PA