Staffordshire appoint new captain and head coach for the 2023 NCCA campaign

Andy Carr has been named as Staffordshire's head coach.

Staffordshire have signed batsman James Kettleborough from Bedfordshire – and immediately handed him the top job.

The 29-year-old batsman has switched counties in the eastern section of the National Counties Cricket Association and it has been announced that he will captain Staffs in all three formats in the 2023 season.

That is part of a revamp of Staffs cricket, which also sees Andy Carr take on the role of head coach to work alongside director of cricket Dave Cartledge.

Kettleborough’s move to Staffs brings an end to a lengthy association with Beds, which saw him make his debut in 2009, following in the footsteps of his dad John.

James Kettleborough is Staffordshire's new captain.
James Kettleborough is Staffordshire’s new captain.

However, Staffordshire has played a developing role in his life, with Kettleborough now living in Trentham and, for the past two seasons, playing his club cricket for NSSCL Premier Division side Checkley. He also helps to coach the county’s under-18 team.

Kettleborough replaces Peter Wilshaw as red-ball skipper and Alex Mellor as leader of the white-ball format. Mellor was also a coach, although it is understood he will solely focus on playing duties.

“Firstly it was a really difficult decision to leave Bedfordshire because they are my home county,” said Kettleborough.

“There’s a lot of history there, with my dad playing for them, so it meant a lot to me that I could represent Bedfordshire.

“I’ve relocated to Staffordshire with my partner and play cricket in the county, so when the opportunity came up to play for Staffs, it really excited me.”

Pictured: Andy Carr has been named as Staffordshire’s new head coach. Picture: Alfie Shenton