Hearse moves aside for Cornford

DAVE HEARSE has stepped down as cricket's senior island manager to become the chairman of selectors.

Andy Cornford has effectively replaced him and the Brighton-based Sussex coach will now spend more time on the island.

'The time seemed right for a change as I have been manager for seven years and over that time we have seen a transformation in the approach of the management team and the players alike, primarily as a direct consequence of our involvement in both European and World cricket tournaments,' said Hearse (pictured).

'The link with Sussex has proved to be invaluable and it is a logical step that Andy assumes more control over Guernsey cricket.

'He is now totally comfortable with the players and the Guernsey system and as the senior squad players know and appreciate precisely what is expected of them both on and off the field I feel that it is a good time to step aside.'

The former Guernsey left-arm fast bowler was the surprise choice when he took over from Pete Vidamour in 2003.

But he won the next three inter-insulars and oversaw the island's introduction into ICC cricket.