Lancashire have announced the appointment of former player and England international Graham Onions as full-time bowling coach.
The 38-year-old retired from professional cricket last season on medical grounds but returns to Emirates Old Trafford to work with the Club’s bowlers on a full-time basis.
In his new role, he will offer specialist bowling support and coaching to the First XI and Second XI bowling contingent as well as supporting Academy and age-group prospects.
Onions, who is an ECB Level 4 qualified coach, took on coaching responsibilities with the Academy upon joining the Red Rose ahead of the 2018 season.
Under his and Head Coach Glen Chapple’s guidance, several seam bowlers have gone on to make their First-Class debuts for Lancashire including George Balderson, George Burrows and Ed Moulton – who appeared in last season’s Bob Willis Trophy.
A stalwart of the English domestic county game, Onions took 723 First-Class wickets and appeared in 13 internationals for England, nine of which were Test matches.
For Lancashire, he took 104 First-Class wickets in just 23 matches at an average of little over 20.
Speaking about his appointment, Onions said: “I am thrilled to get the opportunity to stay at Lancashire as bowling coach and work with one of the most talented bowling attacks in county cricket.
“The depth of talent in the Lancashire system is immense. Competition for places in the current First XI squad is fierce and there is no shortage of talent coming through the Academy pathway; I have been lucky to see that first hand in my coaching role over the last three years.
“Seeing players you have worked with progress, improve and ultimately perform for the First XI is as good as any feeling as I had during my playing days. I was lucky to experience that last summer with a few lads in their debut seasons and I hope I can help even more bowlers contribute to success for the Red Rose over the coming years.
“Emirates Old Trafford feels like a second home to me. The number of messages I received from Members and supporters after my retirement blew me away and I am proud to start my journey into full-time coaching with Lancashire.”
