Graham Ford steps down as Sri Lanka head coach

Sri Lanka’s head coach Graham Ford has stepped down after the team’s poor outing during the Champions Trophy in England, Cricbuzz learnt of the developments on Friday (June 23) evening. Nic Pothas, the fielding coach, is set to take over the duties for the upcoming five-match ODI series against Zimbabwe, starting June 30. Sri Lanka will also play a one-off Test, starting July 14.

SLC confirmed the news on Saturday (June 24) with a media release quoting board president Thilanga Sumathipala: “We have to thank Fordy for his invaluable contribution to Sri Lanka cricket.

“He joined us at a time where we were quoted by the ICC as being on the ‘verge of suspension’ and at a time where things were volatile and uncertain, Ford had faith in us & has given us his fullest support.

“This was a decision arrived at mutually after careful consideration and deliberation and we are both confident at its propriety.

“Ford epitomises the character of cricket as a true gentleman, and we are indeed sorry to see him go. We wish him the very best in where his path lies.”

Ford took over as Sri Lanka’s coach in February last year and was in the job for 15 months. Under him, Sri Lanka whitewashed Australia 3-0 in the Test series but failed to progress beyond the first round in the World T20 2016 and the recently concluded Champions Trophy. Sri Lanka were whitewashed 3-0 in Tests and 5-0 in ODIs when they travelled to South Africa early this year. But the biggest blow came through in the form of team’s humiliating first ever Test defeat to Bangladesh.

Ford acknowledged the good times spent working with the Sri Lankan team, and mentioned how not just the cricket but the nation had become a part of him. “It’s been a privilege to work with these talented young men over the past 15 months. Their passion for the sport is inspiring, as is indeed the nation’s,” Ford said.

“Sri Lanka has grown on me, and although we’ve made the decision to part ways where coaching is concerned, she will always have a little piece of my heart.

“I look forward to sitting up on that beautiful Fort down in Galle and taking a bird’s eye view of Sri Lanka’s special brand of cricket – this time without having to chew my nails to the bone!.

I wish Sri Lanka cricket and the boys the very best, and I must offer a word of advice to the young men – Always believe in yourself, believe in your team, and play from your heart,” Ford signed off.