Thorpe deal questioned by Waugh

For this venture to be a success, he must give New South Wales something it hasn't already got - or can't get from some promising youngsters Steve Waugh on Thorpe

Former Australia captain Steve Waugh has queried a decision by New South Wales to recruit England's Graham Thorpe as a player-coach.

Thorpe is looking to develop his coaching skills but will play grade cricket in Sydney and could turn out for the state side if they need him.

"I must admit my initial reaction was 'Why do we need a Pom to help us out'?

"We've just won the Pura Cup and there is plenty of young talent to foster and develop," said Waugh.

Thorpe is the most experienced member of the current England side, having made 98 Test appearances, and scored over 6,600 runs.

But his decision to head to Australia in January has been seen by some as an indication that he could quit international cricket at the end of this summer.

The timing of his trip down under would put him out of contention for England's tour to Pakistan next February.

"At this stage of my career, it makes sense to start planning for the future and this is an excellent opportunity for me to develop my career in a new environment," he commented.

New South Wales coach Trevor Bayliss has made it clear that Thorpe has only been signed as an "insurance policy".

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They have not had an overseas player since Imran Khan in the mid-1980s and Bayliss said: "He's fully aware that if our batters do the job, there's no spot for him."

Despite his reservations about the deal, Waugh made it clear he has plenty of respect for Thorpe's ability.

"His quiet nature won't get numbers through the gate but may be a blessing in disguise because he won't have the fanfare or the disruptive influence of, say, and Ian Botham.

"He has the stomach for a fight and the competitive environment will definitely bring the best out in his game," said Waugh.

"He must immerse himself in the team and share his knowledge and experience; he must play with an intensity that isn't always part of English county cricket and look to improve his own game, inject enthusiasm and influence those around him."