Welch resigns from Derbyshire role

Graeme Welch has resigned as Derbyshire's elite performance director just hours before the start of the NatWest T20 Blast match against Leicestershire.

Derbyshire are currently second from bottom in Division Two of the County Championship - the position they finished in 2015 - with two defeats and five draws, the most recent result being a 10-wicket loss to Sussex at Hove. In the early stages of the Blast they have won one and lost one.

"I have decided to resign as elite performance director. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club and learned so much," Welch, who was appointed in January 2014, said in a brief statement. "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."

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

The club said elite performance coach John Sadler will take charge of coaching affairs supported by four-day captain Billy Godleman and limited-overs captain Wes Durston.