Nosworthy knows size of task

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Dave Nosworthy is relishing the pressure of vanquishing Somerset’s bridesmaids tag after being appointed director of cricket.

The 44-year-old was handed the reins following Brian Rose’s departure and takes over a club desperate to end their recent run of being runners-up.

This year and in 2010 they came second in Division One of the LV= County Championship while 2011 saw them runners-up for a third straight season in the domestic Twenty20 competition and for a second consecutive campaign in the Clydesdale Bank 40.

Nosworthy, who has previous experience coaching New Zealand’s and South Africa’s A sides as well as other roles, was named Rose’s successor amid glowing praise from Somerset’s cricket committee chairman Vic Marks.

Marks said Nosworthy was the outstanding candidate - something that does plenty to fill the new man with confidence.

Speaking exclusively to ecb.co.uk, he said: “I am really excited to be joining a club that is steeped in a massive amount of tradition and has done especially well in the last few seasons.

“There are some really good people at the club with integrity. Vic is one of those and it is a privilege to have come out as the preferred candidate. I know there were plenty of other guys interviewed and looked at.

Marcus Trescothick, "a real stalwart in the Somerset structure" according to Dave Nosworthy, has overseen some near misses

“The reputation that Somerset has is right up there as one of the best clubs in the world. The main objective is to try and get across the line; there has been a lot of talk about that with whoever I’ve spoken to.

“That adds to the pressure, but my key has to be to take the pressure off the players. Far too often, your eyes are focused on the end result rather than the natural processes. If people are able to play day by day and follow those basics, they will be able to play with a more flair and far less pressure.”

As he aims to ensure that mantra is put into place, Nosworthy will benefit from being assisted in some capacities by his predecessor.

“Hopefully I do not disappoint,” he added. “There are a couple of big boots to fill given Brian Rose is obviously a legend at the club, but he is still around and has a contract in place in an advisory role.”

Coming from South Africa means Nosworthy does not have the familiarity with Somerset’s players that other candidates may have, albeit with a couple of notable exceptions.

He revealed: “I’ve got a good knowledge of every individual player’s performances, even if I have not seen them all in action. The player I am closest to is Alfonso Thomas.

“I helped bring him through in South Africa when at the Titans and brought him in at the Lions recently as an overseas player for our T20 competition.

“He is the player I have got the closest knowledge of. But I also spent some time with Marcus Trescothick recently while I was across in the UK, so that is important to have some sort of idea.

“But it is going to be a couple of months of what I call sponging; taking in as much information as possible before really acting on too much. I think that’s important as there is a process in place that is working. There is nothing broken and I think it’s just a case of polishing for me.”

It is the relationship between head coach Andy Hurry and Trescothick that Nosworthy feels will be of most importance as the trio look to steer Somerset in a new era.

Nosworthy said: “Any head coach’s relationship with the captain is of the utmost importance and Marcus is a real stalwart in the Somerset structure. He is going to play a key role in the way I operate. I am looking forward to working with him.”

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