Director of cricket Simon Cook will welcome suggestions from Kent’s players when attempting to attract overseas recruits

Director of cricket Simon Cook will welcome suggestions from Kent’s players when attempting to attract overseas recruits.

Cook intends to utilise the contacts of the man he’s replaced at Kent - Paul Downton - as he helps head coach Matt Walker put together a new-look squad.

They already have agreed a deal for Australian bowler Wes Agar to return in 2024.

While Cook, previously Hong Kong’s head coach, has connections of his own, he’s open to discussing recruitment with some of Kent’s stars who will remain in action across franchise leagues this winter.

“I’ll lean on Paul with his contacts and then I have some contacts around the world as well,” said Cook.

“Generally, I’ll be leaning on Paul with that - but also, the players.

“The players are an amazing resource for overseas players, connections and ideas. I have always opened it up to the players and been as open as possible to suggestions coming in.

“I’d rather have more suggestions than less.”

Kent endured mixed fortunes with their 2023 overseas signings.

Agar largely proved to be a success but fellow Australian bowler Kane Richardson had a tricky T20 Blast spell while New Zealand bowler Ben Lister didn’t feature for Kent due to injury.

South African all-rounder George Linde’s disappointing two-year all-format contract was also cut short in July.

Player availability could be affected for those who impress during the ongoing 50-over World Cup.

That runs through to November 19 and Cook knows there’s no guarantees that whoever links up with Kent will be a success or available long-term.

“That’s, unfortunately, the nature of the beast at the moment,” he conceded.

“I think it’s going to become almost similar with domestic players, as well, with the amount of franchise