Graham Ford has resigned as Sri Lanka coach, bringing the curtain down on a 15-month stint with the team.

According to ESPN Cricinfo, the reason behind the South African’s decision is said to be an interfering national board, particularly from Asanka Gurusinha, who had been appointed ‘cricket manager’ earlier in the year.

Ford reportedly felt as though he did not have full control over his team as a result.

In the days that followed after the Champions Trophy, however, comments made by Ford seemed to indicate that he was in it for the long-haul.

‘The character that [the team] continues to show is really exciting. If we get a bit of experience among the younger players and we continue to keep that fight – that kind of spirit is really important if we’re going to build and become a highly competitive team,’ Ford remarked.

The Sri Lanka Cricket board thanked Ford for his efforts with the team.

‘We have to thank Fordy for his invaluable contribution to Sri Lanka Cricket,’ stated the SLC press release. ‘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 and has given us his fullest support.

‘This was a decision arrived at mutually after careful consideration and deliberation and we are both confident of its propriety,’ the statement continued.

Ford’s contract was set to expire at the conclusion of the 2019 World Cup.