Morris relieved of Derbyshire duties

John Morris' reign as Derbyshire head of cricket has ended prematurely after a little more than three seasons in charge

Derbyshire have parted company with head of cricket John Morris midway through their LV= County Championship game against Essex.

The club announced two days into the match against Essex at Derby that Morris’ contract would not be renewed when it expires at the end of the season.

However, both he and assistant first team coach Andy Brown will step aside with immediate effect, forcing Derbyshire into a management reshuffle for the remainder of the summer.

A club statement read: “The general committee of Derbyshire County Cricket Club has today decided not to extend the contract of head of cricket John Morris beyond 30 September 2011.”

Chairman Chris Grant added: “After careful consideration, it has been decided not to renew their contracts and both will be released from performing their duties immediately.

“I have spoken to the club captain Luke Sutton, Academy director Karl Krikken and bowling coach Steffan Jones and these individuals, together with committee member Tony Borrington, will oversee the running of the first team for the remainder of the season.

“The positions of lead physiotherapist James Pipe, strength and conditioning coach Luke Storey and second XI coach AJ Harris are unaffected.”

Morris, 47, was a prolific batsman for Derbyshire from 1982-1993 and played three Tests and eight one-day internationals for England. He replaced Dave Houghton as coach in late 2007.

Derbyshire failed to finish higher than sixth in the Second Division in Morris' three full seasons in charge, including taking the wooden spoon last year.

They currently sit third from bottom after winning just one of their opening four matches in 2011, although they are enjoying the better of their current encounter with Essex and sit top of Clydesdale Bank 40 Group A following victory over Worcestershire on Sunday.

Grant added: “I would like to thank both John and Andy for their efforts while they have been employed by Derbyshire and wish them the very best in their future endeavours.”