/ 26 May 2000

SYMMO IN LINE FOR TOP COACHING SPOT

SOUTH Africa’s wily former Test off-spinner Pat Symcox is one of the top candidates to take over as director of coaching at the United Cricket Board. The position was vacated in March by former international Jimmy Cook who has left South Africa for Hampshire. Business Day reports that Symcox has countered suggestions that he won’t be happy in the administrative role, with “Symmo” saying that he has “a lot of administrative experience in other walks of life so I am not unfamiliar with the role.” Symcox, however, stressed that he is not confirming or denying his application. “That is strictly for Dr (Ali) Bacher,” he said. “All I can comment on is what I envisage the job to entail, which is largely setting up structures to ensure a sound coaching system in the country.’