England's new national selector Marcus North has insisted that his Australian roots will not be an issue in the role.
The former Australia batter beat off competition from former England bowlers Darren Gough and Steven Finn to land the job last month.
North, 46, played 21 Tests and two one-day internationals for Australia but also represented six English counties before spending eight years as Durham's director of cricket.
North told Sky Sports: "Well, for me, it's not a problem. Obviously, I've accepted the job.
"Playing for Australia seems like a lifetime, maybe two lifetimes ago for me. I've lived here for 12 years permanently since retiring from playing.
"I actually haven't been back to Australia for 12 years. My two kids are adopted Geordies. They might have been born in Australia, but they're Geordies and my wife's obviously from the north-east.
"Actually I think I worked out I've spent more time in this country than I have back in Australia.
"So, I might still have a soft Aussie twang but I've been heavily invested in English cricket, working at Durham for nearly eight years as director of cricket.
"I just feel this is a great transition for me, coming out of the domestic game and having an unbelievably privileged opportunity to work for England."
North replaced Luke Wright, who stood down earlier this year.
He is the first overseas appointment to the role and joked Australia would be unlikely to follow England's example.
Asked if he could see Australia appointing an Englishman, he said: "Maybe not!"
Australian Associated Press
