Sunday, November 3, 2024

‘It has been a real honour’: Sri Lanka coach Chris Silverwood resigns after T20 World Cup exit

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Chris Silverwood has stepped down as Sri Lanka’s head coach following the team’s group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup.

The 49-year-old, who previously coached England from 2019 to 2022, has tendered his resignation from the position, citing personal reasons.

Sri Lanka won the 2022 Asian Cup under Silverwood’s guidance, also reaching the final of last year’s edition of the tournament.

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“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,” Silverwood said in a statement.

“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.

“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 represented England in six Tests and seven ODIs from 1996 to 2003, taking 17 wickets for his nation of birth.

Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis and coach Chris Silverwood. Photo by Ishara S. KODIKARA / AFPSource: AFP

Sri Lanka failed to qualify for next year’s Champions Trophy after winning two of its nine matches during the 2023 World Cup in India.

The Asian nation also didn’t feature in the Super Eights of this year’s T20 World Cup after suffering defeats against South Africa and Bangladesh during the group stage.

Sri Lanka will next tour England for a three-match Test series in August.

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