Emburey leaves Middlesex

John Emburey © Getty Images

Former England spinner John Emburey has left his position as director of cricket at Middlesex.

Emburey, 55, is keen to further his coaching career after moving upstairs to make way for Richard Pybus last year.

However, when Pybus quit the club midway through the 2007 season, Emburey resumed a more hands-on approach.

Middlesex chief executive Vinny Codrington said: “John’s role as director of cricket was becoming more administrative, taking him away from the area of the game where his strengths lay.

“After lengthy discussions with the club, and a full review of our cricket structure, it was mutually agreed that John pursue his ambitions in coaching.

“He leaves behind a strong coaching team, led by Toby Radford, and a squad under Ed Smith more than capable of competing for all four domestic competitions.

“The club’s cricket structure has a solid base for an exciting future and we are very grateful to John for this.

“John was open and honest throughout as he always is, and I’m certain we will see plenty of him in the summer and in the future.”

Emburey was a surprise name on the shortlist for the vacant position as coach of India last summer but was not offered the job despite first-choice Graham Ford turning the post down.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time here, but I want to continue my career in a direct coaching role.

“I believe I leave the club in great shape and look forward to the club’s success in the future.”