Surrey have announced that Sri Lanka coach Graham Ford will become the county’s head coach in February.
The 52-year-old, who had stated his intention to step down as Sri Lanka coach when his contract expires in January, has signed a three-year deal at the Kia Oval.
Ford will work alongside his fellow South African Graeme Smith, who will return to lead Surrey next season, and Alec Stewart, who has been appointed the club’s director of cricket.
Stewart has been filling the void left by Chris Adams’ sacking as team director in June. The former England captain was unable to prevent Surrey being relegated in the LV= County Championship, although he oversaw them finish runners-up in the Friends Life t20.
Stewart said: “This is an outstanding appointment. Graham is someone who is well respected throughout the cricketing world and has a reputation of improving individual and team performances – I am looking forward to working with him.”
Ford was appointed to his Sri Lanka role in January 2012, having previously coached South Africa, Natal and Kent, for whom he was director of cricket from 2004 to 2006.
He said: “I am delighted to once again be involved in English cricketing system. I have, for a long while, been an admirer of Surrey CCC and see it as a great privilege to be actively involved in such a fine club. I look forward to the exciting times ahead!”
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