Kent have announced Mark Dekker as their interim head coach for the Metro Bank One-Day Cup.
Dekker, a former Zimbabwe Test cricketer and second-team coach, has a rich history with Kent, including his role as lead coach of Kent Women during their championship-winning 2019 season. He has also been involved in all aspects of Kent’s Talent Pathway, working with the second XI and developing young talent at the club.
Mark Dekker will step in for Matt Walker, who is coaching Oval Invincibles during The Hundred. Simon Cook, who led Kent to victory in the 2022 competition and is now their director of cricket, praised Dekker’s experience and coaching abilities.
Dekker expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s an honour to coach our one-day squad for the 50-over season. We have a talented mix of experienced players and promising young talent. This tournament offers a fantastic opportunity for our young squad to gain first-team experience, benefiting Kent Cricket immensely.”
Simon Cook added, “Mark is an excellent coach with extensive experience, from his success with Kent Women to developing the next generation of cricketers through our academy and second team. The One-Day Cup allows us to advance player development and showcase homegrown talent alongside first-team and overseas players like Beyers Swanepoel and Charlie Stobo.”
Kent’s One-Day Cup campaign begins against Somerset at Taunton next Friday, following a friendly with Bedfordshire on Tuesday.
