Halsall quits as Tigers’ assistant coach

The Bangladesh coaching staff became even sparser today as assistant national coach Richard Halsall, who has been with the team for three and a half years, tendered his resignation to the Bangladesh Cricket Board, a BCB press release informed. He was appointed to the Bangladesh coaching staff in September 2014 as a fielding coach and was promoted to the position of assistant coach under then head coach Chandika Hathurusingha in 2016. His contract with the BCB, which was renewed in 2016, was till the 2019 World Cup.

The Zimbabwean's last assignment was in Bangladesh's home series against Sri Lanka in January-February this year. He was granted leave from the subsequent tour of Sri Lanka or the just-concluded Nidahas Trophy. This departure means that since October Bangladesh have lost their two top coaches, with former head coach Hathurusingha tendering his resignation midway through the ill-fated tour of South Africa in September-October last year.

"Richard has officially submitted his resignation. 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," BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury said in the press release. 

"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," the CEO added.

In a statement, Halsall said: "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."