Former Gloucestershire left-arm spinner Tom Smith, who retired from playing after this year’s T20 Blast, is to become a permanent member of Gloucestershire men’s coaching staff.

It is a deserved reward for the 38-year-old who has become increasingly involved in coaching both the men’s and women’s teams throughout the summer.

During this season’s County Championship and Metro Bank One Day Cup campaigns, he played a growing role within Gloucestershire’s backroom staff, contributing to the continued development of players across both squads.

“I’m hugely excited to have been given the opportunity to join the Gloucestershire coaching staff full-time following my retirement as a player this summer,” Smith said.

“I’m extremely grateful to Gloucestershire for facilitating my transition from player to player/coach, and now to full-time coach. 

“The club has provided me with some fantastic opportunities over the past few years, allowing my coaching to grow, and I can’t wait to continue developing in my new role.

“While it’s been a tough season with several players moving on, it also presents an exciting opportunity for us as staff to develop the next generation of talent and begin a new era for Gloucestershire Cricket.

“I’m looking forward to working with the players and staff to continue building our squad and helping to shape a successful future for the club.”

Smith, a popular member of the dressing room, enjoyed success across all formats of the game after joining Gloucestershire, initially on loan from Middlesex, during 2013.

In just his second full season with the club, the Eastbourne-born player enjoyed a pivotal role in spinning Gloucestershire to their first trophy in 12 years, taking two momentum-shifting wickets in the Royal London One Day Cup final against Surrey at Lord’s.

In red-ball cricket, he was instrumental in Gloucestershire’s promotion to Division One in 2019.

Continuing his impact, Smith once again proved decisive in 2024, helping guide Gloucestershire to the T20 Blast final.

His smothering three-wicket haul in the semi-final against the Sussex Sharks paved the way for the club’s eventual triumph in the competition.

Smith, who also played for Sussex and Surrey, will start his full-time coaching position in November when the players return from their post-season break.