Croft is keen to repay Lancashire's backing by leading them to success

Steven Croft believes he's well prepared to take on the men's head coaching role at Lancashire - even if the opportunity came sooner than expected.

- by Amos Wynn

Steven Croft has made the transition from playing for Lancashire to becoming the full-time men's head coach

(DANIEL MARTINO)

The Blackpool-born all-rounder was appointed on a permanent basis last week, having taken interim charge back in May.

Croft's planned 2025 Liverpool and District Cricket Competition season with Lytham took a back seat when he was initially handed the reins following Dale Benkenstein's exit.

That came with the Red Rose struggling in Division Two of the Rothesay County Championship after relegation from the top flight.

He was able to steady the ship in the four-day format, as well as oversee a route to Finals Day in the T20 Blast.

Croft believes he's more than ready to help guide Lancashire back to where he feels they belong.

"I'm obviously thrilled and honoured to be in this role," he said.

"I had a go with it in the summer and knew what it was about.

"When I got the call, I was really proud to get it. I'm thankful the club went with me and hopefully I can repay them.

"It's not something I thought would come around this quickly. Obviously I took steps towards my coaching while playing.