SOMERSET have announced that batting coach Dave Houghton will leave the club later this year because "there is no necessity for two specialist batting coaches” at the club.

Houghton, who has been the specialist batting coach at Somerset since the autumn of 2013 will have no further involvement with the first team, but will remain until December to work with the Somerset Academy programme.

New director of cricket Matt Maynard’s, who has previously worked as England batting coach, has expressed his intention to have a hands on role at the club means there is now no role for the departing Houghton.

Maynard said: “Dave Houghton has a wealth of experience and knowledge which he has freely shared with the players here at Somerset. He has made a great contribution during his time at the Club.

“However there is no necessity for two specialist batting coaches, which is a shame because I have worked with Dave at the ECB and I know what he has got to offer, so we will miss him here.”

Maynard added: “Dave is staying on at Somerset to help with the Academy through until Christmas which is great for those youngsters and they need to pick up as much as they can from him during that time.”

Dave Houghton said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at Somerset. It is a great Club with a fantastic bunch of players and I have many happy memories of being at the County Ground.

“Of course I am disappointed to be leaving but can fully understand the necessity for change and wish the Club every success for the future.”