Chris Silverwood Resigns as Sri Lanka Head Coach Citing 'Personal Reasons'

Chris Silverwood resigned from his position as Sri Lanka men’s cricket team head coach, citing personal reasons, on Thursday.

“Being an international coach means long periods away from loved ones. After lengthy conversations with my family and with a heavy heart, I feel it is now time for me to return home and spend some quality time together,” said Silverwood in a statement released by Sri Lanka Cricket.

“I would like to thank the players, coaches, backroom staff, and management of the SLC for their support during my time in Sri Lanka. Without your support, none of the success would have been possible,” the statement added.

“It has been a real honour for me to be part of Sri Lanka Cricket and I will be taking away many fond memories,” Silverwood added.

Silverwood helped Sri Lanka win the T20 Asia Cup in 2022 and also reach the finals of the 50-over Asia Cup in 2023. The team also secured several bilateral series wins both at home and overseas. Amongst these were a home series win against Australia in the 50 over format and two away test series wins over Bangladesh.

However, they had a disappointing run in the 50-overs World Cup in India last year, finishing ninth of 10 teams after seven defeats in nine matches. Sri Lanka crashed out of the T20 World Cup in the group stages itself with two losses, a no result and a solitary win, and it was the former champions’ worst performance in the ICC showpiece.

Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene resigned from his role as consultant coach on Wednesday following the country’s exit from the World Cup.

The SLC has already started the process of finding a new head coach ahead the team’s next international outing against India in a white ball series next month.

The Lankans will then head to England for a two-match Test series.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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