Newly-appointed Kent director of cricket Simon Cook on speaking to England managing director and former team-mate Rob Key since taking on his new role

Simon Cook has revealed a message he’s received from England managing director and former team-mate Rob Key upon being named Kent’s new director of cricket.

Key, 44, was quick to praise the appointment of Cook on social media as he prepares to replace retiring Kent director of cricket Paul Downton officially from the start of October.

Cook and Key have since spoken, too.

“I spoke to him the other day,” Cook confirmed. “He just said ‘Well done’ and ‘Do it in your own way.’

“It’s absolutely nice to see that ex-colleagues and friends are looking on.

“I’ve had lots of good messages of support.”

Former Kent captain Key was a surprise appointment as England managing director last April.

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But he appointed New Zealander Brendon McCullum as the coach of the Test team, who instigated a more attacking “Bazball” form of play which has taken the cricketing world by storm, with all-rounder Ben Stokes as skipper.

Asked if he would be drawing inspiration from what Key has done with England, 46-year-old Cook replied: “Yeah, absolutely.

“I think the key is that he’s doing that in his way. That’s exactly what he said to me - make sure you do it your way, don’t try and compromise.

“That’s the same message we give to the players. You want to succeed in your way because, if you don’t [go your own way], then you’ll always kind of be kicking yourself.

“They’re probably some wise words that I’ll keep close to my heart when making decisions.”

It’s almost 20 years since Cook joined Kent as a bowler - and played alongside Key and head coach Matt Walker.

While a future career in coaching for Cook, who also has been head coach of Hong Kong, was on the radar, a director of cricket position is not something