Luke Wright will step down as national selector in the latest change to the England backroom following the dismal Ashes campaign.
Former Sussex and England all-rounder Wright will leave at the end of the T20 World Cup, after just over three years in the role.
The 40-year-old’s departure is his own decision, rather than being asked to leave in the aftermath of England’s 4-1 defeat in Australia.
“The role demands significant travel and time away from home and with a young family, the time feels right to pass the baton on to the next person,” said Wright.
“I now look forward with real interest and enthusiasm to whatever cricketing roles the future may hold.”
Nevertheless, Wright’s exit is another alteration to the England staff as they look to rebuild after the Ashes.
“I have absolutely loved working with Luke,” said England director of cricket Rob Key. “His contribution to English cricket has been exceptional and I trust his judgement as much as anyone. He has added so much more to this role than just being a selector.
“I’m very sad to see him go and I wish him and his family all the best for the future. I have no doubt that at some stage down the road he will enhance English cricket once again.”
Key and head coach Brendon McCullum have been given the opportunity to stay in their roles if they can bring changes that will improve results and team culture.
After dropped catches blighted the tour of Australia, England have brought in fielding coach Carl Hopkinson on a short-term basis for the three T20s in Sri Lanka and the World Cup that follows.
Troy Cooley, the Australian who was famously part of the England coaching team for the 2005 Ashes, has returned as national pace-bowling lead – though his arrival was planned for some time.
England have also implemented a midnight curfew for the tour of Sri Lanka and the World Cup. On Wednesday, white-ball captain Harry Brook admitted supporters have “every right to be annoyed” after he was punched by a nightclub bouncer in October on the eve of the third one-day international against New Zealand.
