HAMPSHIRE director of cricket Giles White has revealed he is close to appointing a new first-team coach – and that Glenn Maxwell could return to the county this year.

White has had more than 50 applicants for the post and is hoping to be in a position to appoint a new colleague soon, having started the interview process more than two months ago.

He said: “We’ve spoken to a number of people, we’re happy with one of those candidates and if that comes through we’ll be able to announce something shortly. “It’s about getting the right person and we’re in discussion at the moment with someone who we feel is. “If things go as we hope we should be in a position to announce it.”

Chris Adams has been linked with the role, but White was happier to reveal the possible identity of Hampshire’s second T20 overseas player, following recent discussions with Australia international Maxwell, who starred for the county in 2012.

White added: “Glenn’s always on the radar and we’ve spoken to him recently about the opportunity.

“I think he’s very keen so let’s see how that works out.”