Maynard sets out to return Glamorgan's glory days

Matthew Maynard officially starts his new job as Glamorgan's cricket manager today, and given the dismal season the county have just endured, he has his work cut out.

"I am proud to be part of Glamorgan's glorious past," Maynard told Wales on Sunday. "Now I'm equally honoured to have the chance to shape a bright future for Glamorgan."

Maynard has an increased budget of £1.6 million to play with, and he plans to use it to sign new players. "I have already looked at approximately 100 players from all over the world, a mixture of domestic and overseas Test players, and we're in talks with a number of players.

"We do need to strengthen our squad, the members will be crying out if we don't. The fact we have finished bottom of both the County Championship and Pro 40 means I have lost a number of signings. Players think it will take too long for us to get it right. However, if that is what they're saying they are not the right characters for our side.

"The club is very similar to when I started playing," he continued. "We've a few senior players, like Robert Croft, who knows how to win, and some talented youngsters who don't yet. It is all about harnessing their undoubted talents. You can't expect youngsters to be consistent so soon but, on the other hand, their averages aren't good enough for this level.

"Yet youngsters must experience highs and lows to get the experience to be consistent. I envisage a two to three year turnaround in fortunes.

"This county cricket club is steeped in history and honours. People need to remember that when they wear the daffodil on their chest. It'll be interesting to know how many of our current team understand that. I might invite some old players to give the guys a one-on-one Glamorgan history lesson. That might help a little bit as I think we've lost our identity in the last few years."

"In the mid-90s we were labelled the 'Crazy Gang' as we scrapped for every little thing. We need that mentality again."