According to their director of cricket Alec Stewart, Surrey County Cricket Club have appointed “good people person” as head coach.

Michael di Venuto was appointed this week as a replacement for Graham Ford, who left the Oval to take up the Sri Lanka head coach role.

The 42-year-old Tasmanian di Venuto has spent two years as assistant coach as well as lead batting coach for Cricket Australia.

Stewart said: “We have found another high-quality coach with a great work ethic, and excellent knowledge of the English county game.

"Michael is a good people person. His 12 years of county experience will be invaluable.

“He is highly regarded within the Australian set-up for his ability to work with and get the best out of players.”

He said: "Being able to appoint a coach from a top quality international team can only serve to benefit the club."