Former England managing director Paul Downton has been appointed director of cricket at Kent.

Downton endured a torrid 14 months within the England and Wales Cricket Board hierarchy, with his standing arguably never recovering from the decision to axe Kevin Pietersen early into his tenure.

The former wicketkeeper, who played 30 Tests and 28 one-dayers, was himself sacked by England shortly after the 2015 World Cup but returns to cricket with the county where he started his professional career in 1977.

Downton was part of the Kent side that won two County Championships before switching three years later to Middlesex, where he sat on the board for 19 years following the end of his playing career in 1991.

Downton said on Kent’s official website: “I was lucky enough to play in some talented, successful teams and I hope to help bring some success back to Kent.

“Cricket has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember since I picked up a bat at Sevenoaks Vine and this role allows me to draw on my skills and experience.

“I’ll be responsible for the business of cricket and making us as competitive as we can be on the pitch.

“We will aim to maximise our resources and make good strategic decisions in developing and attracting talent to the club.

“The ambition is to connect with the communities of Kent and build teams that they can be proud of.”

The news comes one day after Kent announced Sam Billings would succeed Sam Northeast as captain for the 2018 season.