Former England all-rounder Luke Wright has been appointed as England men's selector by England and Wales Cricket (ECB) on Wednesday (November 23). Wright was given the same role that was performed by the former national selector, Ed Smith before the selection panel was scrapped by Ashley Giles.
However, England Men's managing director Rob Key has now reintroduced the selector’s role, and Wright is set to take the position in March 2023 after completing a coaching assignment with Auckland.
The Sussex allrounder will share the responsibility for the selection of England's red- and white-ball teams, alongside the coaches and captains of the respective squads, as well as Rob Key, Mo Bobat, and player ID lead David Court.
Wright's insights will also be taken into the selection of England's Lions and Young Lions squads, as well as team selection across all domestic cricket in the summer and talent identification.
His input will also be taken into consideration in making decisions on ECB central contracts. Wright will also work with the ECB science and medicine team on player availability and programming.
Rob Key said on Wright’s appointment: “With his significant experience of playing in England and overseas as well as his in-depth knowledge of county cricket, he will be an important voice in squad selection while also helping to identify the next generation of England stars.”
Meanwhile, Luke Wright said in an ECB statement: “It’s a huge honor and privilege to take on this role, one that I am incredibly excited about. With the Ashes and ICC men’s 50-over World Cup next year, I can’t wait to get started and try to contribute after what has been a fantastic year for England men’s cricket.”
Notably, Wright represented England in 101 international matches between 2007 and 2014. He also won T20 World Cup with England in 2010 and played over 400 matches for Sussex across all formats.
(With AFP Inputs)
