Restructuring within the English national cricket team has made Ed Smith’s role as national selector redundant after three years of service.
As per the new plan announced by managing director Ashley Giles, men’s head coach Chris Silverwood will gain complete control over the national squad as selection by committee becomes a relic of the past. Silverwood will thus be in charge of selecting both test and limited-overs cricket squads, ending a 120-year-old tradition of panel selection in English cricket.
Announcing the new changes, Giles said there was a need for “greater lines of accountability” in the sport going forward. He also added that modern technology would help Silverwood get all the data he needs more efficiently, thus rendering the selection committee redundant.
Giles went on to praise Ed Smith for his service, saying that he “would like to personally thank Ed for his contribution to the England men’s teams over the past three years” and wishing him well in all his future endeavors. According to Giles, “Ed’s input has helped deliver successes for all our England teams, and he has worked with commitment and professionalism throughout his time as national selector.”
Smith’s deputy and former English batsman James Taylor will remain part of the new structure as head scout. He will be joined by the men’s performance director, Mo Bobat, who, along with Taylor’s own network, will feed Silverwood all of the necessary player information. However, the final decision and responsibility for the team’s performance will rest solely on Silverwood’s shoulders.
“It has been a huge privilege to work with great people trying to help England cricket, and I am excited about watching England’s continued development. I’ve been very lucky to work with James Taylor, and I’m delighted that he will remain part of the new structure.” Smith said in a joint statement.
While it’s too early to bet on the success or failure of the new system, it will certainly put a lot more pressure on Silverwood in the future. How he handles it going forward remains to be seen.
While this is a minor change in the world of online gambling, it’s bound to influence the marketplace on new betting sites.
