Former India all-rounder Sridharan Sriram has decided to step down as the Australia team's spin bowling coach to focus on his coaching role with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL.
Sriram, who played eight ODIs between 2000 and 2004, has been an important figure in Australia's coaching set-up since being appointed as a spin coach under then-coach Darren Lehmann in 2016. He has had a big influence on the careers of Adam Zampa, Ashton Agar, and Nathan Lyon.
Sriram said in a statement: “After being on the road for six years it's with a heavy heart I have decided to move on from my current role as an assistant coach of the Australian men's team.”
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He added, “I feel this is an opportune moment keeping in mind the team, giving them enough time to prepare for two World Cups and the World Test Championship. It has been a great experience for me working across formats, World Cups and Ashes and I have come out incredibly richer in knowledge.”
But cricket.com.au reported that “the 46-year-old Sriram has elected to focus on his coaching with the RCB and spending more time with family at home in Chennai where he is based.”
Meanwhile, Sriram thanked Australian coaches Darren Lehmann, Justin Langer, and Andrew McDonald and captains Steve Smith, Tim Paine, Aaron Finch, and Pat Cummins for believing him.
He signed off by saying, “Thanks also to Ben Oliver, Brian McFadyen, all the players and staff for welcoming me with open arms and making me feel a part of the group. Greg Chappell, Troy Cooley, Pat Howard and Marcus Stoinis were also instrumental in getting me involved. I wish the team and the coaches the very best for the future.”
(With PTI Inputs)
