“This is a huge opportunity for me at a very early stage in my coaching development”

Image courtesy of: khaleejtimes.com

Nottinghamshire all-rounder Paul Franks has been appointed as the United Arab Emirates’ assistant coach for the World Cup.

Franks, who represented England in one ODI, will be tasked with helping the side get their fielding up to par prior to the start of the tournament.

“It took me a while to get my head around being approached by the Emirates Cricket Board, that was flattering enough in itself, and this is a huge opportunity for me at a very early stage in my coaching development,” Franks said. “I’ve still got a lot to learn and World Cups don’t come around very often, it was a decision that didn’t take long. I’m grateful to Mick Newell and the staff at Nottinghamshire for giving me the chance to go away, learn, apply myself, and I’m hoping to bring that, and more, back to Trent Bridge this summer.”

United Arab Emirates head coach Aaqib Javed added: “Paul was a natural, easy choice. He made a strong, positive impact during the team’s three-week training camp, the players know him, and he knows their strengths as well as the areas they need to work on. We’re looking forward to having Paul on board.”