Gooch steps down as Essex coach

Graham Gooch is to step down as Essex head coach to spend more time working on commercial matters for the cricket club.

The former England and Essex captain will continue to act as a batting coach but captain Ronnie Irani, helped by Gooch and bowling coach John Childs, will assume more responsibility for the team.

"We all see this as a very exciting and positive development for the club," said chief executive David East.

Gooch said: "Over the past three years I have thoroughly enjoyed working closely with Ronnie Irani and the players as head coach and I now believe I can make a greater contribution to Essex's future prosperity in this exciting new role."