FORMER Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes has been named as the new head coach of Bangladesh.

The ex-England wicketkeeper succeeds Chandika Hathurusingha after penning a two-year contract until the 2020 World Twenty20.

His appointment comes six months after his exit from Worcestershire over allegations he hid Alex Hepburn’s rape charge from the club.

The 53-year-old was named an England scout under the national team's new selection system in May.

But he will now take the hot seat at Bangladesh who put West Indies legend Courtney Walsh in interim charge for the Twenty20 series against Afghanistan in India.

Speaking to reporters in Bangladesh, Rhodes said: “To be given the responsibility by the president and board is a fantastic honour and it's a privilege to be involved in Bangladesh cricket.”

South African great Gary Kirsten was hired by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) as its consultant to help search for Hathurusingha’s successor.

Rhodes guided Worcestershire to the 40-over title in 2007 and secured a sixth County Championship promotion this year by topping Division Two.

"Steve Rhodes was on top of our list. His name was also in Kirsten's list,” said Nazmul Hassan, president of BCB.

“We spoke to him face to face today and we are satisfied fully.”