England have moved to name former Australian Test batsman Marcus North as the next England selector. Final interviews were held this week, and the ECB plans to replace Luke Wright following the 4‑1 Ashes defeat in Australia. North’s appointment would make him the first non‑English figure to oversee England’s senior squad selection and bring a fresh perspective to the role.

The 45‑year‑old played 21 Tests for Australia before turning to coaching, taking the Durham director of cricket role in 2018. In that capacity he has worked alongside England captain Ben Stokes, who also turns out for Durham. The ECB received 80 candidates for the post, insisting on extensive international and county experience and a keen eye for emerging talent and has overseen multiple county titles.

Wright stepped down after three years, citing the travel demands of a selector’s schedule and a desire to spend more time with his young family. Should the ECB confirm North, he will join head coach Brendon McCullum, director Rob Key and performance chief Ed Barney in shaping squads for Tests, ODIs and T20s. The move signals a willingness to broaden the talent‑identification network.