Larsen quits as Warwickshire performance director

Gavin Larsen was apponted in March 2023, effectively as replacement for former director of cricket Paul Farbrace, who left to join Sussex

Warwickshire's Gavin Larsen is stepping down after two seasons as performance director at Edgbaston to return to his native New Zealand.

Just a day after announcing current New Zealand Test captain Tom Latham as their main overseas signing for 2025, fellow Kiwi Larsen is head back down under for "personal reasons".

The 62-year-old former New Zealand international said: “My tenure has been shorter than planned. But sometimes in life the odd curve ball can be thrown your way. That’s the case here.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure being part of the Bears family and I’ve enjoyed every second of it. It’s been a great ride.

"I certainly feel a big part of the Edgbaston family. People and relationships are always key in any walk of life. And here at Edgbaston I can honestly say it’s as positive an environment as I’ve been involved in."

Larsen will return home to New Zealand next week, although he will remain in the post into the new year "to ensure a smooth transition".

Warwickshire chief executive Stuart Cain said: “Gavin has a great energy and a depth of cricketing knowledge that is second to none.

"He has worked tirelessly to improve the high-performance environment. Whilst not linked, we will now combine the findings of the high-performance review with the chance to freshen up our high-performance leadership team."

Under first-team coach Mark Robinson, Warwickshire finished seventh out of 10 in the County Championship last season, winning just once in 14 games, to stay up with 25 points to spare. They lost in the T20 Blast quarter-finals for the fifth straight year - and also in the semi-finals of the One-Day Cup.

Following the reorganisation of women's cricket in this country, Warwickshire will also be running a women's side next season for the first time, under Alistair Maiden, competing in the women's T20 and the women's One-Day Cup.