AJ Harris returns to Derbyshire as second XI coach

AJ Harris was once 'timed out', against Durham University in April 2003

Former Derbyshire fast bowler AJ Harris is to return to the county as second XI coach, over 11 years after he left.

Harris, 37, will work alongside his old Derbyshire team-mate Karl Krikken, the county's academy director, and head of cricket John Morris.

"AJ's experience will become another valuable asset to our coaching staff," Morris said. "It will be great to have him back at the club."

Harris spent six seasons at the County Ground as a player from 1994 to 1999.

He spent nine years at Nottinghamshire, where he earned a benefit year, before seeing out his career at Grace Road with Leicestershire.

Harris, who also enjoyed loan spells with Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, took 451 first-class wickets in 147 matches, claiming 195 scalps in 150 one-day games.

Morris added: "With the likes of Tom Poynton, Dan Redfern, Jake Needham, Paul Borrington and Atif Sheikh already on professional contracts, Karl is already doing a fantastic job working in partnership with the Derbyshire Cricket Board.

"The recruitment of AJ allows Karl to concentrate solely on that task.

"The second XI is a crucial breeding ground for these young cricketers so the two of them will work very closely together.

"The development of young players from our academy to the professional game is massively important to the progression of the club.

"With the way the ECB are now financially rewarding counties with Performance Related Fee Payments for the selection of homegrown players, it is more important than ever that we continue to nurture our own talent."