Butch snr joins race to be new Surrey coach

Surrey's 2nd XI coach Alan Butcher, father of England batsman Mark, has applied for the job of head coach at the club following the recent shock departure of Keith Medlycott.

Butcher is one of 10 candidates on the short list. Interviews are being conducted this week by Richard Thompson, chairman of Surrey's cricket committee, and chief executive Paul Sheldon.

Thompson said: "Whatever happens, Butch will continue to have an important role at the club. He is a superb coach, especially of batsmen, and is hugely popular among the players."

Surrey's championship bid collapsed towards the end of last season and there was unrest in the dressing room, a factor which led to Medlycott's surprise exit. Ian Ward was overlooked as captain and left to sign for Sussex, while skipper Adam Hollioake resigned four days later after Ward signed for his new county.

Some of the senior players were concerned about Jon Batty taking over as captain because he will also open the batting and keep wicket. One player said: "Even Alec Stewart couldn't do all three jobs."

Butcher would be readily accepted by the senior players as Medlycott's successor, although he is far from certain to get the job.

Peter Moores, the Sussex coach, could be a target because he is highly regarded after winning the championship against the odds, but he is under contract.

"We've been inundated with applicants," said Thompson. "All ages, colour and nationality. We are looking for the best and we are not going to rush into it. We aim to make a decision in four or five weeks."

He said that South African Kepler Wessels, who won promotion for Northamptonshire last season, is not a contender because he is under contract.

Some say Stewart could be a contender in two or three years. "It's too soon for him yet," said one source. Stewart currently has a contract with Surrey as a business manager involving corporate events.