Watkinson (right) has “decided to seek a fresh challenge in his career”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Mike Watkinson has resigned as Lancashire’s director of cricket following the club’s relegation to Division Two in the County Championship.

Watkinson, who held the position for five years, stated that he “decided to seek a fresh challenge in his career.”

Watkinson was also heavily criticised for the fact that Lancashire played without an official head coach last season. The post ended up  being shared by assistant coach Gary Yates and captain Glen Chapple.

It is understood that former England ODI coach Ashley Giles and ex-Surrey team director Chris Adams are the two frontrunners to replace Watkinson.