TAUNTON — Somerset County Cricket Club has confirmed that batting coach Shane Burger will leave his role at the end of the 2024 season, concluding a three-year tenure that saw the club secure its first men’s trophy in over a decade. The former Scotland head coach, who joined Somerset ahead of the 2022 campaign, will depart to pursue other opportunities, with the club already beginning the search for his successor.
In a statement released by the club, Director of Cricket Andy Hurry expressed his gratitude for Burger’s contributions. "Shane has been an outstanding member of our coaching team over the last three years and has played a significant role in our recent success," Hurry said. "He has built fantastic relationships with the players and staff, and we wish him and his family all the very best for the future."
A Tenure Defined by Development and Silverware
Burger’s arrival at the Cooper Associates County Ground coincided with a period of transition and ambition. Tasked with honing a talented but sometimes inconsistent batting unit, his impact was felt across all formats. His first season in 2022 culminated in Somerset lifting the Royal London One-Day Cup, ending a 14-year wait for a men’s limited-overs trophy. The victory at Trent Bridge was a testament to the team’s improved white-ball batting depth and tactical nous.
The 2023 season saw Somerset come agonisingly close to a historic double, finishing as runners-up in both the Vitality Blast and the County Championship. The Championship title race went down to the final day, with Surrey pipping Somerset by five points. Throughout this intense campaign, Burger’s work with key batters was widely praised, particularly the development of younger players within the squad.
Key Batters Flourishing Under Burger
Several Somerset players have credited Burger with playing a pivotal role in their technical and mental development. His coaching philosophy, which blends data-driven analysis with a strong focus on the psychological aspects of batting, resonated throughout the dressing room. Notable progress was seen in:
- Tom Banton: Regained form and confidence in the Blast, playing match-winning innings.
- Tom Lammonby: Developed into a dependable top-order batter across formats, earning a Lions call-up.
- Tom Abell: The club captain consistently praised Burger for his supportive role and strategic input.
- Lewis Goldsworthy & James Rew: Youngsters who have shown significant advancement in their games.
The Search for a New Batting Lead
With Burger’s departure confirmed, the Somerset hierarchy has moved swiftly to outline the process for appointing his replacement. Andy Hurry confirmed that the club is seeking a coach who can build on the existing foundations. "We are now undertaking a thorough process to appoint a new batting coach who will continue to develop our players and contribute to our pursuit of further success," he stated. The role is considered one of the most attractive in county cricket, given the quality of Somerset’s batting roster and the club’s clear ambition to win trophies.
Speculation has already begun regarding potential candidates, with names such as former England batter Marcus Trescothick—already a coaching consultant at the club—and other experienced county professionals being mentioned. The appointment will be crucial as Somerset aims to go one step further in the Championship and consolidate their status as a white-ball powerhouse.
Burger’s Legacy and Future Ambitions
In his own statement, Shane Burger reflected fondly on his time at Taunton. "I have loved every minute of my time with Somerset. It’s a special club with incredible players, staff, and members. I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I leave with many great memories and friendships," he said. Burger, who led Scotland to the 2021 T20 World Cup before joining Somerset, is understood to be exploring opportunities in franchise cricket and potentially with international teams, leveraging his growing reputation as an innovative batting coach.
His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Somerset’s coaching structure, which has been notably stable in recent years under head coach Jason Kerr and Director of Cricket Andy Hurry. The club now faces the challenge of integrating a new voice into a successful setup without disrupting the positive culture and momentum that has been built.
A Crucial Period for Somerset’s Title Hopes
The timing of this announcement, coming during the heart of the 2024 season, adds an interesting dynamic. Somerset are once again in the thick of the title race across competitions. The club’s management will be keen to ensure the transition is seamless, minimising any potential distraction for a playing group with genuine aspirations of securing multiple trophies this summer.
The batting unit, currently featuring the prolific overseas signing Matt Renshaw alongside established stars, will be in the spotlight. Their performance for the remainder of the season will be a fitting tribute to Burger’s influence and a compelling audition for the coach who will next take up the mantle. As one era ends, the foundation laid over the past three seasons provides a robust platform for Somerset’s continued quest for glory.