Nic Pothas steps down as Sri Lanka's fielding consultant

Nic Pothas has stepped down as the national side's fielding consultant after nearly two years, Sri Lanka Cricket announced on Tuesday 17 April.

The former South African cricketer, who featured in three one-day internationals, was previously interim head coach after Graham Ford broke his association with the Sri Lankan team last June.

In that period, Sri Lanka had a poor run. They lost an ODI series 3-2 against Zimbabwe for the first time at home, were completely outplayed by India in a multi-format series 9-0, and lost the limited-over series against Pakistan.

Although they won the two-match Test series against Pakistan in the UAE, they lost away to India in November-December.

Chandika Hathurusingha, the former Sri Lankan all-rounder, was then named the head coach.

Pothas, 44, said in a letter issued to SLC two months before his contract ended that it was the right time for him to move on. “After two incredible years with Sri Lanka cricket, this is the right time for me to move on to other opportunities, which will allow me to spend quality time with my young family,” he said.

"I would like to thank Sri Lanka Cricket for affording this special opportunity. I would also like to thank the board, my fellow coaches and all the players I have had the pleasure and privilege to work with, for all the support they have provided me. Finally, I must thank all the supporters who follow Sri Lanka so passionately, for all their support during my tenure.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to be involved with Sri Lanka. It has given me the opportunity to learn and improve as a coach as well as to contribute to a very talented bunch of players. It will always hold a special place in my heart.”