Essex hire former Australia seamer Mick Lewis as bowling coach

Since retiring from playing in 2013, Lewis has worked in several roles, including with both Melbourne Big Bash teams – Stars initially and latterly with Renegades

Former Australia seamer Mick Lewis will be Essex's new bowling coach, replacing Andre Nel.

Lewis, who is currently head bowling coach at Victoria and has agreed a two-year deal with the Chelmsford side, emerged as the county's top choice at the end of a thorough recruitment process following Nel's departure in November.

Since retiring from playing in 2013, Lewis has worked in several roles, including with both Melbourne Big Bash teams – Stars initially and latterly with Renegades.

During a career that garnered 460 wickets across formats and nine international caps, he earned a reputation as a white-ball death-over specialist. He also holds the unenviable record for the most expensive figures in ODI history, having bowled 10 overs at a cost of 113 runs in South Africa's history-making run-chase against Australia in 2006.

"I'm thrilled to be joining Essex and working alongside [head coach] Anthony McGrath and his coaching team," he said of his new position.

Lewis added: "It's a great opportunity and a project I'm really excited about. There are some extremely talented bowlers in the squad. Simon Harmer is one of the best spinners in the world, whilst the likes of Sam Cook and Jamie Porter should be pushing for further international recognition."

^{Lewis represented Australia nine times (Alexander Joe/AFP via Getty Images)}

Porter and Cook are two of the most consistent seamers on the county circuit. Cook was rewarded for his progression with England Lions recognition over the winter.

Lewis, who worked with Dale Steyn during his time with Stars, will join Essex's coaching staff for the first time ahead of a pre-season trip to Abu Dhabi in March.

McGrath said: "Mick has both played and coached at a high level, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience with him to Essex.

"I know our bowlers are going to benefit hugely from his appointment and are looking forward to working with him, whilst I think everybody at the club will profit from his technical and strategic understanding of the game."