LONDON — Middlesex County Cricket Club has announced the departure of first-team coach Richard Johnson, stating that "results have fallen below expectations" in recent seasons. The decision comes after a disappointing campaign in the County Championship, where Middlesex struggled to compete at the top of Division Two.
Johnson, a former England fast bowler, had been in the role since 2020 after serving as assistant coach. His tenure saw Middlesex secure promotion back to Division One in 2022, but the club was immediately relegated the following season. This year, despite high hopes, the team has failed to mount a serious promotion challenge, sitting mid-table with just three wins from ten matches.
A Tough Decision for Middlesex
Middlesex CEO Andrew Cornish acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasized that the club needed a fresh direction. "This was not an easy call, but we felt the time was right for a change," Cornish said in a statement. "Richard has given his all to Middlesex, both as a player and a coach, but we believe a new approach is necessary to achieve our ambitions."
Johnson, who took 267 first-class wickets for Middlesex during his playing career, expressed his disappointment but accepted the decision. "I’m proud of what we achieved, especially getting the club back into Division One, but I understand that results haven’t been where they need to be," he said.
Underperformance Across Formats
While the County Championship struggles were the primary concern, Middlesex’s white-ball performances have also been underwhelming. Key issues included:
- Failure to qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 Blast in three of the last four seasons
- Early exits in the One-Day Cup, with only one semi-final appearance since 2018
- Inconsistent performances from senior players, including overseas signings
Former Middlesex captain Angus Fraser, now the club’s Director of Cricket, admitted that recruitment and player development had not met expectations. "We need to be competing for trophies, and right now, we’re not close enough," he said.
Search for a Replacement Begins
Middlesex has already begun the process of identifying Johnson’s successor, with interim coach Alan Coleman taking charge for the remainder of the season. Early reports suggest the club is considering:
- Experienced county coaches with a track record of success
- Former international players who could bring fresh ideas
- Internal candidates familiar with the club’s structure
One name linked with the role is former England all-rounder Paul Collingwood, who has coaching experience with Durham and the national team. However, no formal approach has been made yet.
Players React to the Change
Current Middlesex captain Toby Roland-Jones praised Johnson’s contribution but acknowledged the need for improvement. "Jono has been a great mentor, but as players, we have to take responsibility too. We haven’t delivered consistently enough," he said.
Young batter Max Holden echoed the sentiment, adding, "It’s always tough when a coach leaves, but the club has to move forward. We’ve got a talented squad, and hopefully, a new voice can help us push on."
Looking Ahead
Middlesex’s immediate focus will be on finishing the season strongly, with promotion still mathematically possible. However, long-term planning is now the priority, with the club aiming to:
- Strengthen the squad with strategic signings
- Improve youth development pathways
- Establish a clear playing identity across formats
Cornish emphasized that Middlesex remains ambitious. "We’re a proud club with a rich history, and we want to get back to competing at the highest level. This decision is about giving ourselves the best chance to do that."
Johnson, meanwhile, leaves with the club’s gratitude. "I’ll always be a Middlesex man, and I hope the team can find the success they deserve," he said in his farewell message.
The search for a new coach is expected to accelerate in the coming weeks, with Middlesex keen to have a permanent appointment in place before the 2025 season preparations begin.
For now, the club’s supporters will be watching closely, hoping this change marks the start of a new era of success at Lord’s.