Graeme Welch resigns from role as elite performance director at Derbyshire

Graeme Welch has resigned from his role as Derbyshire's elite performance director, the county announced on Friday.

Welch, who enjoyed spells with both Derbyshire and Warwickshire during his playing career, resigned from his role after two and a half years at the County Ground.

Derbyshire have started the new domestic season poorly and are currently second-bottom of the County Championship Division Two.

"I have decided to resign as Elite Performance Director. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Club and learned so much," Welch said in a statement released on Friday.

NatWest T20 Blast Cricket

"I would particularly like to thank the Chairman and Board for their support over the last few years and I wish them all the best for the future."

Elite performance coach John Sadler will take over Welch's coaching duties ahead of the Falcons' T20 Blast fixture at home to Leicestershire on Friday evening.

Derbyshire County Cricket Club chairman Chris Grant thanked Welch for his efforts over the past three seasons.

"Over the last two and a half years, we have seen a number of players develop under Graeme's guidance," Grant said.

"We have also seen a clear increase in the levels of professionalism and work ethic within the Club. Whilst on-field results have been disappointing, Graeme leaves the Club with stronger foundations in place.

"The Board would like to thank Graeme for his contribution and we wish him every success in the future."