EXCLUSIVE by Glenn Pearson

Former England wicketkeeper Paul Nixon could be in line for a shock return to Kent after being invited to apply for the vacant head coach’s position at the St Lawrence Ground.

The 41-year-old, pictured, called time on his 22-year playing career at the end of this summer and has already been contacted by several counties with coaching vacancies.

Nixon spent three years at Kent between 2000 and 2002 before returning to Leicestershire and has until November 7 to weigh up whether to formally apply for the role vacated by director of cricket, Paul Farbrace.

When asked whether he would be interested in the Kent job, Nixon said: "Possibly. It’s a big ask for a player to go straight into a head coach’s job because it takes you time to know your values and principles.

"It could be something I look to do in the future, whether or not I go into it straight away, that’s the decision I have to make. I have great links and respect for Kent."

Read the full story in this week's paper.

Picture: Ady Kerry

Would you welcome Paul Nixon as Paul Farbrace's replacement, or do Kent need someone with more experience next season? Have your say in our comments section below.