Cook leaves director of cricket role at Durham 'with a heavy heart'

The 66-year-old, who joined Durham in 1991, has held various positions at Chester-le-Street since, playing a key part in establishing first-class status and subsequent success in red and white-ball cricket

^{Geoff Cook is to step down from his role as Durham director of cricket}

After a 27-year association with the county, Geoff Cook is to step down from the position of director of cricket at Durham.

The 66-year-old, who joined Durham in 1991, has held various positions at Chester-le-Street since, playing a key part in establishing first-class status and subsequent success in red and white-ball cricket.

The former England international was made head coach in 2007 before stepping up to take director of cricker status in 2013. He moves on as part of what the club are calling a "staff restructure".

"It comes with a heavy heart that I am leaving my role as director of cricket at Durham County Cricket Club but I’m immensely proud of the work we have achieved during my 27-year stay," Cook said.

"It’s been a privilege to work at Durham for so long and the memories will be with me forever.

Cook has given 27 years of service to Durham

"From establishing ourselves as a first-class county to our back-to-back title wins in 2007 and 2008, and the Championship triumph in 2013 were, alongside many more, the highlights of my career.

"There are too many people to thank but I would like to show gratitude to all the players, staff, members and supporters I have worked with and of course my family and friends.

"Durham County Cricket Club is a great club and will continue to improve, I’d like to wish them the best of luck going forward."

Durham chairman Sir Ian Botham said: "Geoff is a true legend of the club and his instrumental work has had an immeasurable impact on the success of Durham County Cricket Club.

"His efforts in establishing Durham as a first-class county and turning the team from newcomers to a title-winning force will never be forgotten alongside his superb coaching achievements.

"I would like to wish him the very best for the future."

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