FORMER Somerset County Cricket Club chief executive Andrew Cornish is back in county cricket, in the role of 'chief of staff' at Middlesex.

Cornish became Somerset chief executive in March 2018, succeeding Lee Cooper, but his departure in August 2019 left the club looking for its fourth CEO in less than three years.

Following reports that Somerset had been concerned about a projected shortfall against optimistic financial projections for the year, the club confirmed that it had "taken the decision to terminate Andrew Cornish’s term of employment".

READ MORE: Somerset terminate contract of chief executive Cornish

Malcolm Derry, the club's honourary treasurer for six years up to January 2019, was brought back in on a consultative basis, and Cornish's role of CEO was filled by Gordon Hollins, who started in the job in March 2020.

Now Cornish has taken up a position at one of Somerset's fellow counties, having joined Middlesex as a consultant to the Board of Directors in September 2020.

A Middlesex statement said: "[He] has, for the last six months, been working closely with the club’s board and Senior Management Group on developing and finalising Middlesex Cricket’s strategy for the next four-year period.

"In his new role, he will work closely with chief executive Richard Goatley and the club’s staff, board and appointed committee members, to oversee the club’s strategy and ensure that all strategic objectives are executed and delivered to their full potential."

Cornish commented: "I’m delighted to be joining Middlesex Cricket at this exciting yet challenging time.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the past few months working with an exceptional board and executive management team.

"As we begin the rollout of our new strategy, the focus shifts to delivery and outstanding implementation, which will form a key part of my new role.

"It’s a privilege to be joining a club with such a great history and with so much potential for the coming seasons; it also happens to be my ‘local’ club.

"The sight of members watching our men’s and women’s teams playing live this summer is something I’m particular looking forward to."