Halsall steps down as Bangladesh assistant coach

Richard Halsall has resigned as Bangladesh's assistant coach because of family commitments. The 49-year old who joined as fielding coach in 2014 and later promoted as Chandika Hathurusingha's assistant two years later, will step away with immediate effect.

Halsall's last assignment with the national team was the tour of Sri Lanka in January and February. He was granted leave for the Nidahas Trophy that concluded in Colombo on Saturday. His exit leaves BCB with another vacancy to fill.

They are already without a full-time head coach since Hathurusingha took up a similar role with Sri Lanka in November. Courtney Walsh stepped in as the interim head coach for the Nidahas Trophy.

"Richard [Halsall] has officially submitted his resignation," said Nizamuddin Chowdhury, the BCB CEO. "We understand that his decision is from family considerations and he wishes to stay close to home especially to be by the side of his ailing father. The board respects his priorities and has accepted the resignation.

"Richard has been an integral member of the Bangladesh team management during the last four years and part of many successes of the national team. The board would like to thank Richard for his contribution to Bangladesh cricket and wishes him the very best for his future."

Halsall, in a statement via the BCB, spoke glowingly of his time in the country. "I wish to thank the board for four brilliant years with the national team. I have worked alongside some excellent colleagues, and have had so many opportunities to grow and develop in my career.

"I will always be grateful for how my family was accepted and treated and the great memories of famous victories versus England, Pakistan, India, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Australia will always remain with me. I will never forget my time with the Bangladesh Cricket Team and wish them every success in the future."