It is with regret that we announce that Ted Williamson has decided to step down as coach of the Lightning with immediate effect.
The former Irish international has been in the role for the past two seasons, during which the Lightning have dominated the Hanley Energy Inter-Provincial tournament, winning the hat-trick of titles on offer both years and going through the 2016 season undefeated - a first for any Inter-Pro side.
“The last two years have been great for the team from a success point of view but I feel that the Lightning Head Coach needs to have more of a presence in the province," said Williamson.
"Living in Cork puts constraints on the role in that regard, especially with all the travelling involved.
"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with Leinster Lightning - they've been a great squad to work with and I wish them the very best of luck and future success. I think it’s now the right time for me to move onto the next challenge from a coaching perspective."
The latest Hanley Energy InterProvincial Series saw Lightning go through the campaign undefeated - a first for any of the sides since the competition relaunched in 2013.
Cricket Ireland Performance Director Richard Holdsworth paid tribute to Williamson saying: “Ted has had great success with the Lightning and we thank him for his efforts over this period.
"He continues to develop his coaching and is currently on the ECB Level 4 programme supported by Cricket Ireland, and we hope he completes this next year and moves onto other coaching roles within Ireland.
"He leaves Leinster Lightning in a very strong position and the management, players and staff would like to thank Ted for his invaluable contribution and wish him all the best for the future."
Cricket Ireland/Leinster Lightning will advertise the position as Head Coach in due course.