By Bibhash Dash
Former England international Mike Watkinson is seeking a “new challenge” after announcing he is to step down from his role of cricket director at Lancashire.
Watkinson’s career with Lancashire progressed to the role back in 2008, and the 53-year-old will now leave the Red Rose after more than three decades of association.
Watkinson was involved with the England coaching set-up under former coach Duncan Fletcher, while he also boasts county titles with Lancashire both as player and as part of the management.
As a player, Watkinson brought much success to Lancashire in the 1990s, ending his time on the field with 308 first-class matches where he scored over 10,000 runs and took 739 wickets.
However, Watkinson has stepped down from his post following the side's relegation to Division Two.
He said: “After enjoying a long and successful career at Lancashire County Cricket Club, I am now looking forward to a new challenge and would like to wish all the players and staff at the club all the best for the future.”
Watkinson’s time with the Lancashire management saw the likes of Andrew Flintoff and James Anderson flourish for England.
Watkinson himself played four Tests for England - his debut came against West Indies at Old Trafford in 1995 - taking a total of 10 wickets and scoring 167 runs.
Lancashire chairman Michael Cairns said: “I would like to place on record our sincere gratitude to Mike Watkinson for his long-term service of Lancashire County Cricket Club as player, captain, cricket manager and cricket director.
“On behalf of everybody connected with LCCC, I would like to wish Mike well with his future endeavours.”