Rob Key announced as new managing director of England men's cricket

Following England's dismal 4-0 Ashes drubbing over the winter, the entire setup of backroom staff has shuffled about, with both head coach Chris Silverwood and former managing director Ashley Giles resigning after the defeat.

Joe Root's exit as captain of the side was the latest resignation as a result of England's poor form, but it seems the side have finally got around to finding replacements for the roles.

While the captaincy issue is still at large, and Paul Collingwood's interim status is still in consideration, Rob Key has been assigned the new managing director of the side.

Key retired from cricket back in 2015, when he represented Kent, and he since went into punditry and commentary with Sky Sports.

But the 42-year-old has decided to give up his media career in favour of taking this new role as Ashley Giles' successor.

"It is an absolute honour to take up this role. The chance to have an impact and make a difference is an opportunity given to very few and I will give it everything I have to try shape the next great era of English men's cricket," Key said.

"Although at this current moment it has been a challenging time in English cricket, I also think it's as exciting a time as I can remember.

"With two of our teams near or at the top of the world rankings and an undoubted amount of talent in our game, I hope to try and bring everyone along for the ride so we can all help take English men's cricket to new heights across all formats."

Key's first - and most important - priorities will be making crucial decisions on the leadership roles within the squad, both at coach and player level.

With Root stepping down, Key needs to assign a new captain, with Stuart Broad and Ben Stokes the obvious options.

But with Collingwood also just in interim charge of the side, Key will need to make difficult decisions over who will coach the side before their next Test in the summer against New Zealand.

However, while Key has been thrown into the deep end with his appointment, ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison rallied behind his ability to make such decisions.

"Following a thorough recruitment process, Rob stood out in a very competitive field.

"His passion and knowledge of the game at domestic and international level is outstanding.

"He is a proven leader and combines an approachable nature with fresh original thinking and resilience which will stand him in good stead.

"He will bring a lot to the role and I am sure players and staff alike will enjoy working with Rob. I have no doubt he will relish the challenge before us."

With an interesting few months ahead, England are not back in Test action until June 2.