Barnt Green begin search for new skipper as Brown gets top job at Bears (From Droitwich Advertiser)

Barnt Green begin search for new skipper as Brown gets top job at Bears

12:00pm Thursday 7th February 2013 in Sport

BARNT Green have paid tribute to departing captain Dougie Brown after he took the director of cricket role at LV= County champions Warwickshire and have begun the process of finding his replacement.

Brown follows in the footsteps of his former Bears team-mate Ashley Giles, who departed to take on the role as England’s one-day coach, as he takes the reins at Edgbaston.

The Cherry Hill Road club said a fond farewell to a player who brought success to the club during his six-year spell.

He guided them to the Birmingham League Premier Division title in 2011, scoring 762 runs and taking 37 wickets in the process.

As a player he took 50 wickets for three seasons in a row to cement his position as one of Barnt Green’s greatest ever players.

Paul Clarke, who is Barnt Green’s league representative, paid tribute to the Scotsman.

He said: “We’re absolutely delighted Dougie has got the job at Warwickshire.

“It was becoming clear over the last few weeks that he was the favourite and he deserves his chance.

“He’s been a revelation for Barnt Green and whoever replaces him as captain has some big shoes to fill.”

Green have started talking to first team players about who will step up to the captain’s role and they hope to make a decision in the next fortnight.

Brown was assistant to Giles at Edgbaston and also coached the Bears’ second XI, guiding them to the title in 2011.

Graeme Welch has been appointed assistant coach at Warwickshire in recognition of his growing influence within the squad.

Tony Frost will join the cricket management team on a full-time basis as batting coach and will take on Brown’s responsibilities with the seconds.

“I’ve had a fantastic time at Barnt Green, there are some tremendous people there who have helped my a great deal,” Brown said. “My time as captain has allowed me to step up and learn some of the skills I will need day-to-day in my new role.

“I will still keep in contact with everyone there and I cannot thank everyone enough for their support.”

He added: “It is a real honour for me to be given this opportunity to lead Warwickshire with the strong coaching support of Graeme Welch and Tony Frost.

“As a club and a squad we are in a good place but we are determined to deliver sustained success on the pitch.”