WORCESTERSHIRE director of cricket Steve Rhodes celebrates ten years in charge at New Road this month — and his predecessor is not surprised at the success he has enjoyed with the County.

Rhodes ended a distinguished playing career spanning two decades with Worcestershire at the end of the 2004 season after winning countless trophies as part of a golden era in the club’s history.

He was appointed assistant coach to Tom Moody, himself a superb cricketer for Worcestershire, and expected to serve an apprenticeship under the Australian all-rounder.

But, after two months of the 2005 season, Moody left New Road to revive Sri Lanka’s fortunes and Rhodes was promoted.

Now the 50-year-old is about to celebrate a decade in charge, having guided the club to the 2007 Pro40 League title, four promotions and three T20 quarter-finals, while playing a major role in opting to put the emphasis on developing youth.

Moody, who spent nine seasons as a player and four-and-a-half as director of cricket at Worcestershire, said: “There is no surprise to me that Bumpy has stepped up and become a successful coach.

“He has always been a passionate cricketing man and coaching has provided him with a vehicle to share that passion and knowledge.

“During Bumpy’s playing days, there were few who had the work ethic and determination to improve their game. Along with this came a true competitive spirit.

“In my time as director of cricket at New Road, having Bumpy as an assistant along with Dolly (Damian D’Oliveira) provided me with two guys that I could trust and rely on in any situation.”