Rixon considers Surrey job

Rixon is currently in charge of state side New South Wales

Australian Steve Rixon says he is mulling over an offer from Surrey to become the county's new coach.

Rixon has led state side New South Wales to three one-day titles and last year's first-class crown.

"I think it's got to the stage where they have made up their minds who they want; it's just a matter of whether or not I want to do it," Rixon said.

"There's a very strong expression of interest without actually seeing a contract as such."

Rixon, 49, played 13 Tests as a wicket-keeper for Australia between 1977 and 1985 and coached New Zealand after his first spell at NSW.

Alan Butcher has done six or seven years at Surrey and has brought through some talented players Keith Medlycott

He is understood to have been one of five men interviewed to replace Keith Medlycott, who stepped down after leading Surrey to seven trophies in six years.

"With [Surrey's] season starting in April and [NSW's] finishing in the middle of March, that could be the deciding factor; I'm not a big one for rushing decisions," he added.

"However, I also understand their position where they obviously need to get answers and they need to be secure for their future as well."

Surrey refused to confirm whether Rixon was on the shortlist.

A spokesman told BBC Sport: "The list of candidates has gone from an initial 10 down to five and now we have a shortlist of three.

"We are expecting to make an announcement by the end of the month."

Medlycott told BBC Sport the Surrey job would attract a high calibre of potential candidates.

He said: "Steve Rixon has obviously got an excellent CV and an international background but Surrey will have a good short-list.

"It is a fantastic opportunity for many coaches and I'm sure there will be some big names in there."

The former spin bowler paid tribute to Alan Butcher, father of England batsman Mark, who served as his assistant coach.

"Alan has done six or seven years at Surrey and has brought through some talented players so I'm sure his name will be in there," he added.

Medlycott has yet to make up his mind over his next assignment, but expects to remain within cricket rather than pursuing business interests.

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