Noel Gibbons has emerged as a candidate to take over the vacant coaching post at Cleveland County.

Carlton Smith, the Cleveland County president, has confirmed that his club have approached the former Bailey’s Bay captain.

“We are having ongoing discussions with Noel who has a wealth of knowledge and is someone new for the boys to learn from and respect,” Smith said.

“We are looking for a coach and he said he has no problem wearing blue and white.

“I respect Noel for all he has done for cricket over the years and we hope to have something in place soon.”

Gibbons, regarded as one of the finest all-rounders the island has produced, has previous coaching experience at St George’s and Bay, where he served last season as an assistant to coach Irving Romaine.

Cleveland were forced to look for a new coach after former coach Clay Smith opted not to stay on beyond his contract to focus solely on his role as Bermuda coach.

The former Bermuda and St George’s Cup Match captain enjoyed a highly successful coaching stint at the Harris Bay club, who he led to a first Eastern Counties triumph in 33 years, as well as a maiden Champion of Champions title.

Others considered for the vacant coaching job at Cleveland included David Hemp, the former Glamorgan and Bermuda cricket captain, Lionel Cann and club stalwart Peter Philpott.

“We spoke with Lionel who said he is taking a break from coaching and is going to help out at St George’s,” Smith said.

Hemp has committed himself to a job offer in England for half the summer while Peter has heavy work commitments.”

Cleveland retained their top-flight status last season after beating First Division St George’s in a promotion/relegation play-off.