Houghton steps down at season end

Let me be clear from the start, that I always liked Dave Houghton as a man. He was happy to chat and I had no issue with him in that regard.

It had become increasingly clear, however, that the Derbyshire dressing room was a far from happy place and the evidence has been there in the form of results, as well as the spectacular loss of form by almost the entire batting line up. Increasingly erratic statements as to not knowing what was wrong, highlighting the failings of one young player and a side that was sliding to ignominy showed that change is required. We were bottom in 50 over cricket, look set to be in four-day cricket and were only marginally better in the Vitality Blast. No coach, in any sport, can survive that. 

It is in his own interests, as well as that of the club, that he will leave. He knows cricket, he has held a lot of roles in it, but in neither spell at Derbyshire, the only county to give him the 'top job' has it really worked out.

The only surprise is that he was allowed to make plans for next season and put people on contracts who may or may not 'fit' for his successor. Similarly, the question now is what happens with those whose deals are coming to an end, of which there are many?

Professional sport is unforgiving and results-driven. Anyone involved in it knows this and accepts this as a consequence of involvement. Sometimes a coach and a club just fits and while Houghton is regarded as a good one to one batting coach, evidence suggests the top job, so dependent on communication and interpersonal skills, was a challenge too far.

As a batting coach, several people have spoken of how he helped their game and he did well in that role at Derbyshire, one he held at other counties too. 

I wish him well for the future and he will undoubtedly get plenty of work with the media, where his knowledge is appreciated.

For Derbyshire, the challenge is now to find someone who can start a revival. There is a need for someone to come in, shake things up, get the best out experienced talent and develop a crop of younger players that is not without ability. 

I have two or three people in mind and one standout candidate, were he aware of the vacancy and it was of interest.

But that is an article for later today, or tomorrow, depending on how time goes.

There is an opportunity now for Derbyshire and the club board to shape a better future..

They must think big and seize it.