Rob Key appointed Managing Director of England Men's cricket
Key will take over from Sir Andrew Strauss, who held the role on an interim basis after the departure of Ashley Giles. Giles left the position after three years, following the debacle of the Ashes, where England lost 4-0 away in Australia.
In his role, Key will be involved in formulating strategy behind the England men's team and will also be a part of the High Performance Review, which is set to begin shortly.
Key will step down from his duties as a commentator and an expert with Sky Sports Cricket. Key played 21 internationals for England and had a long and storied career with Kent on the domestic circuit.
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Speaking on his new role, Key said in a statement released by the ECB, "It is an absolute honour to take up this role. The chance to have an impact and make a difference is an opportunity given to very few and I will give it everything I have to try shape the next great era of English Men’s cricket.
“Although at this current moment it has been a challenging time in English cricket, I also think it’s as exciting a time as I can remember.
"With two of our teams near or at the top of the world rankings and an undoubted amount of talent in our game, I hope to try and bring everyone along for the ride so we can all help take English Men’s cricket to new heights across all formats.”
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17 Apr 22](/news/2577328)
ECB Chief Executive Officer Tom Harrison was also excited by Key's appointment, stating, "Following a thorough recruitment process, Rob stood out in a very competitive field. His passion and knowledge of the game at domestic and international level is outstanding.
"He is a proven leader and combines an approachable nature with fresh original thinking and resilience which will stand him in good stead. He will bring a lot to the role and I am sure players and staff alike will enjoy working with Rob. I have no doubt he will relish the challenge before us," Harrison added.
One of the first tasks ahead for Key will be the appointment of a permanent Test skipper after Joe Root decided to step down from the position. England are currently languishing at the bottom of the World Test Championship table.