Middlesex has hired former New Zealand batter Peter Fulton as their new head coach. He takes over from Dane Vilas, who was in the role temporarily after Richard Johnson stepped down following a slow start in the Championship and T20 Blast.
Fulton, who played 23 Tests for New Zealand between 2006 and 2014, has signed a three-year contract starting before the 2026 season. The 47-year-old leaves Canterbury, where he had been head coach since 2020.
Canterbury is currently leading the one-day Ford Trophy and has won the title in 2023-24 and 2024-25. They are also second in the Plunket Shield, New Zealand’s four-day competition.
Fulton guided Canterbury to the Plunket Shield title in his first season. Many players from his team have moved into New Zealand’s national squads. Before working with Canterbury, he was New Zealand’s batting coach.
Fulton steps in at a challenging time for Middlesex, which is facing off-field issues including financial mismanagement, and a legal dispute with former chief executive Richard Goatley.
“I am delighted to join Middlesex Cricket. I’ve always followed county cricket and wanted to be a part of it,” Fulton stated. “The club has a rich history, and I’m eager to get to work building a team that everyone can be proud of.”
Alan Coleman, Middlesex’s director of cricket, expressed excitement about Fulton’s arrival. “I look forward to working closely with him in the coming years,” he said. “After a thorough selection process, Peter stood out as an ambitious and talented coach with a strong track record in New Zealand domestic cricket with Canterbury, helping to develop numerous Black Caps players, which aligns with our goals.”
“I appreciate Canterbury Cricket for allowing an early release from Peter’s contract, enabling him to join us for pre-season training. We’re excited to welcome him to Middlesex Cricket and Lord’s.”
