Kent have appointed Phil Relf as their new academy director, replacing Paul Farbrace who recently became Sri Lanka's assistant coach. Relf is currently a National Coach Development Manager with the ECB. He has already spent considerable time with Kent through his involvement with county age group cricket.

Graham Ford, Kent's director of cricket, said: “I am delighted that Phil will be joining us. He has a detailed knowledge of cricket in Kent and also has extensive coaching experience. We are confident he will carry this forward in getting the best out of the talent available within our academy.”

Relf added: “I am really excited about this new opportunity. Simon Willis and Paul Farbrace have laid a firm foundation for the Kent Academy and I am very much looking forward to taking the project on to the next stage.” He takes up the new role on 15 October.