Ford turns down India

Graham Ford

Kent’s director of cricket Graham Ford has declined an offer to succeed Greg Chappell as India coach.

Ford was allowed by the county to attend an interview for the post but after being offered the job he has decided to remain in charge at Canterbury.

He said: "I am very grateful to the club for allowing me to go to India to find out more about the job of coaching the Indian team. I have had a chance to reflect on the offer made by the BCCI and their urgency to fill the vacant position.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to continue my work here at Kent. This has been a really difficult decision,” he said.

“I am honoured that India have shown such interest in my capabilities, but feel that this is the right decision for me and my family."

India, who parted ways with Chappell after a dismal effort in the World Cup, must now continue the search for a new coach and time is running out to have somebody in place for a one-day international against Ireland scheduled for June 23.

Kent chairman of cricket Graham Johnson was ecstatic that Ford has decided to pledge his future to the county.

He said: "This is really great news for Kent cricket. We are delighted Graham has decided to stay with us. I would like to say how much we appreciate the way Graham has handled the last few days.

“He has made a significant contribution to our playing performance during his time with us, as well as the system to produce local cricket talent in Kent.

“Part of that input has been the development of a support mechanism that has meant that the playing side was able to operate effectively whilst Graham was away and great credit goes to them.

“I know that all in the business at Kent, the playing staff, the coaching staff and all our administrators will be thrilled by his decision.

“It also says much about the future vision we have for Kent, the way we conduct our business and how we all play a part in the delivery of that vision, not least through what we do on the field.”