Graham Ford signs up for second spell as Sri Lanka coach

“We are extremely disappointed to be losing Graham Ford, who has not just been an outstanding head coach but has played an integral role in the progress that we have achieved over the last two years,” Surrey director of cricket Alec Stewart told the club’s official website.

Ford, who worked with former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara at Surrey last season, guided the club to the county championship second division title and to the final of the One-Day Cup.

“He has worked tirelessly with the players and his efforts can be seen in their individual performances and the team’s results, culminating in promotion back to the first division,” added Stewart.

“It was a very tough decision for Graham to leave Surrey but we understand that the opportunity to go back and coach at international level with Sri Lanka was too good to turn down.

“Despite the timing of his decision, we wish Graham all the best and we will immediately start our search for a new head coach.”