GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S search for a new head coach to replace John Bracewell has finished with Richard Dawson, the former County Ground and England off-spinner, taking charge.

Dawson joins with immediate effect for what is his first position in a coaching capacity.

The 34-year-old is a former Yorkshire, Gloucestershire and England slow bowler and finished his playing career with Gloucestershire at the end of the 2011 season.

He stayed on as their specialist spin-bowling and one-day coach before joiningYorkshire at the beginning of 2014 as their second XI coach.

Following a rigorous recruitment process, Dawson was appointed to the newly created role ahead of very strong competition.

Dawson said: “This is my first head coach role so I know it will be tough but I am looking forward to the challenge.

“During my time with Yorkshire I was fortunate to work with some outstanding coaches, players and backroom staff. I learned a lot from them and look forward to putting that into practice at Gloucestershire.

“We have a good young squad here and my aim will be to help them compete in all competitions. We will be working hard every day to try and make the small improvements that will bring us success on the field.”

Gloucestershire Cricket’s chief executive Will Brown said Dawson was an outstanding candidate and 'shone' during the selection process.

He said: “We are delighted to have secured Richard as our new Head Coach. He brings a wealth of coaching experience through his time with Gloucestershire, Yorkshire and as a former England Performance Programme Spin Coach.

“We saw some very good candidates but he really shone through during the recruitment process. I would like to place on record my thanks to Yorkshire for their co-operation in allowing Richard to join us with immediate effect and we can look forward to a successful 2015 season with him at the helm.

“Following on from Richard’s appointment we now plan to begin our search for an Assistant Head Coach in the next two weeks.”