Chris Silverwood resigns as Head Coach of Sri Lanka cricket team

Sri Lanka head coach Chris Silverwood has resigned from his post citing personal reasons, the country’s cricket board announced on Thursday, June 27. The 49-year-old’s exit follows closely after Mahela Jayawardene’s resignation as consultant coach, marking a period of significant change in the Sri Lankan cricket setup following their disappointing T20 World Cup campaign where they failed to qualify for the Super 8s.

Early success and challenges

The Englishman was appointed Head Coach of Sri Lanka’s men’s team in April 2022, shortly after his tenure with the England men’s team ended with a 0-4 away Ashes series loss. Silverwood quickly found success with Sri Lanka, guiding the team to lift the Asia Cup in 2022. Additionally, he oversaw a notable ODI bilateral series win against Australia at home (3-2) during a challenging period marked by the country’s economic crisis.

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Recent struggles and resignation

Despite the early triumphs, Sri Lanka’s performance faltered in recent months. They finished as runners-up in the 2023 Asia Cup but suffered through two disappointing World Cup campaigns in the last six months. These setbacks, coupled with the recent changes in the coaching staff, have contributed to a period of reflection and restructuring within the team. Silverwood’s resignation adds to the turbulence, leaving Sri Lanka Cricket with the task of finding a new head coach to lead the team forward.

“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.” Silverwood was quoted as saying in SLC’s release.

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