Graham Ford: Sri Lanka coach leaves after 15 months in charge

Graham Ford has left his role with Sri Lanka just 15 months into the role

Graham Ford has stepped down as Sri Lanka coach following the team's early exit from the Champions Trophy.

Ford was 15 months into his second stint with the team, who lost to Pakistan by three wickets in Cardiff.

It follows an inconsistent year for Sri Lanka who suffered their first ever Test loss to Bangladesh and a whitewash in South Africa.

The South African, who first coached the side from 2012 to 2014, had signed a contract until the 2019 World Cup.

The decision comes before Sri Lanka's one-day series against Zimbabwe, starting on Friday.

Sri Lanka Cricket said Ford had made an "invaluable contribution" but the decision was mutual.

The announcement comes after the board launched an investigation on Thursday into comments by fast bowler Lasith Malinga.

He compared the country's sports minister to a "monkey".

Ford previously worked with county club Surrey and was the director of cricket at Kent.

"It's been a privilege to work with these talented young men over the past 15 months," he said "Their passion for the sport is inspiring, as is indeed this nation's."

"I wish Sri Lanka Cricket and the boys the very best, and I must offer a word of advice to the young men - always believe in yourself, believe in your team, and play from your heart."