JERSEY Cricket has a new face at the helm of the men’s national side, in the shape of former first-class cricketer Paul Hutchison.
He will assume the position vacated by long-time coach Neil MacRae after ten fruitful years in charge of Jersey.
Hutchison plied his trade mostly for home county Yorkshire, with stints at Sussex and Middlesex.
On his first-class debut for Yorkshire, “Hutch” took seven wickets for just 38 runs, before touring with England A prior to the turn of the millennium.
In addition to a decorated playing career, the 46-year-old brings extensive coaching knowledge of the associate cricket scene to the Island, having previously worked within the Sweden and Denmark national set-ups.
Jersey Cricket chief executive Sarah Gomersall said: “It was a thorough process to ensure we found the right fit for our men’s side.
“We are really happy with our choice. Paul brings a great understanding of associate-level cricket, which is vital given the calendar of events we have upcoming.
“We are building up to the T20 tournament in July, which is a top priority for 2024.
“To get Paul in ahead of our trip to La Manga in April is really important.
“It gives him a great chance to look at the players in the T20 format right at the start of his tenure.
“He also has a great grasp of the Challenge League, which starts up again at the back end of the year.
“For us, it was a really good fit and we are all excited to see what Paul brings to our team.”
It is safe to say outgoing coach MacRae has laid sturdy foundations for his successor.
The Scot guided the Caesareans to seven ICC trophies during his ten-year tenure, while Jersey’s men climbed to a record high 21st in the T20I team rankings.
The Islanders’ sustained progress over recent years has been well-documented and it comes as no surprise that they have captured the services of the experienced Yorkshireman.
One Caesarean in particular has had a front-row seat to the dramatic ascendency of the national side – Chuggy Perchard.
The 31-year-old made his Jersey debut in 2010 in Nepal and has captained the team since 2017.
“His CV is really impressive,” he said.
“He worked with Essex when they won the County Championship and T20 Blast.
“By the sound of things, he’s a top coach and I’m really excited to get started with him.”
Speaking yesterday, Perchard added that Hutchison was preparing to lead his first training session [Tuesday evening].
“He’s flying over and taking training straight away.
“Hutch is throwing himself into the deep end, which is brilliant to see.
“I think it shows a lot about him. The papers have only recently been signed and he’s straight over to Jersey to learn about the team and prepare for Spain next month.
“From my perspective, Macca [Neil MacRae] has laid some solid foundations.
“I don’t think Paul needs to reinvent the wheel.
“He’s inheriting a strong squad and I think he will be focused on keeping that momentum going, while also putting his stamp on the side.
“Change is always a little scary, but it’s a great time to be involved in Jersey Cricket.
“The lads have enjoyed a long winter break after an intense 2023 and we are ready to give everything for this team, under Paul’s leadership.”
