Hampshire appoint Adrian Birrell as new First Team Manager

The South African has joined on a three-year deal, and replaces former England allrounder Craig White, who resigned in October after two seasons as head coach due to personal reasons

Hampshire have announced the appointment of former Ireland coach Adrian Birrell as their new First Team Manager.

The South African has joined on a three-year deal, and replaces former England allrounder Craig White, who resigned in October after two seasons as head coach due to personal reasons.

Birrell, who is currently coaching the Paarl Rocks in the Mzansi Super League, will begin work in March, prior to the start of the Royal London One-Day Cup winner's pre-season tour.

Prior to coaching Paarl, he worked as South Africa assistant coach from 2013 until 2017, and before that was the England U19 head coach in 2010.

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"I am honoured and delighted to be appointed as the Hampshire First Team Manager," he said.

"While I was with the Proteas, we played at the Ageas Bowl in 2017 and I was very impressed with the world-class facilities. 

"I am very excited to be working with such a talented group of cricketers and look forward to competing for honours in all three formats - it is a wonderful opportunity for me personally and I can't wait to get started in the new year."

Director of Cricket Giles White added: "Adi is someone who is well respected throughout the cricketing world and has a reputation for improving individual and team performance. 

"He brings experience, a sense of enjoyment and a genuine passion for the game and the people that play it - I’m looking forward to working with him."

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