The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced today that the England coach, David Lloyd, has decided to leave the ECB after the World Cup.

His departure has been concluded in entirely amicable circumstances following a meeting this morning with ECB Chairman Lord MacLaurin and International Teams Director Simon Pack.

David, at 52, is looking to secure his future in the longer term and wanted an assurance that his contract would be renewed after the World Cup.

David fully understands the ECB's position, that it would be difficult to give such an assurance at this time. Both agreed that the matter needed to be concluded promptly to end speculation so the England team can concentrate fully on their World Cup campaign.

ECB Chairman Lord MacLaurin said: ``We owe David a huge debt for the job he has done as England coach since taking over the role in 1996. During his time in the job, David has introduced many innovations that mean we are now world leaders in several aspects of our approach to the game at international level. It would be a fitting send-off for him if we could lift the World Cup for the first time this summer.''

ECB Chief Executive Tim Lamb said: ``David has done a magnificent job for England, including delivering our first five Test series victory for 12 years. For the moment nothing is more important than a successful World Cup campaign, and I know that David will give his all in achieving this.''

David Lloyd commented: ``I've had a tremendous time with the England side and I'm looking forward to completing my tenure with a successful and enjoyable World Cup campaign. It was important for me to have a clear picture of what my future holds. Now that the matter is settled this means the team can focus exclusively on the World Cup.''

David's innovative contribution to the role of coach means he leaves the national side in a healthy state.

During his time in the role he has helped refine the team management structure, which now includes a fitness consultant and a media relations officer, as well as a number of specialist coaches. David has also been instrumental in the development of a scheme to promote leg-spin in this country, and has fostered the use of video analysis of both England and opposition players.

Since David took over as coach in the spring of 1996, England have enjoyed Test series wins against India (1-0), New Zealand (2-0) and South Africa (2-1), and secured the Sharjah Champions Trophy against India, Pakistan and the West Indies in December 1997.

Chairman of Selectors David Graveney echoed the praise for David when he said: ``It's always a sad occasion when a working relationship comes to an end, but David has done a brilliant job, and I'm sure that view would be endorsed by all the team management and players.

``Personally, I've enjoyed my involvement with ``Bumble'' both as a friend and in a working relationship, especially managing sides away from home.

``The way David has performed in the job, with the pride and passion he has shown, is a worthwhile example for everyone involved in Team England. I am sure we are all united in our efforts to make sure we win the World Cup to give him the perfect send-off.''

England captain Alec Stewart said: ``It's disappointing news but it's been a real pleasure to work with ``Bumble'', a coach who is thorough, loyal to his players and completely professional. He has brought a real sense of passion to the job of England coach and it would be great to reward him with the World Cup as a final vote of thanks from the players for all he has done for us.''

Former England captain Michael Atherton said: ``David has done a top-class job with England. He has brought real enthusiasm and dedication to the job and I think he has had a large part to play in helping to establish the infrastructure that is now in place. I can say without fear of contradiction that David is enormously admired and respected by all the players.''

The ECB will now start its search for a new coach to fill the role vacated by David.

David Lloyd will hold a media conference at Old Trafford, Manchester on Thursday 25 March at 11 am.