Vaas quits as SL fast bowling coach days after appointment

Sri Lanka's former pace spearhead Chaminda Vaas resigned as the team's fast bowling coach within days of his appointment and compounding problems for the national team on the eve of their virus-hit tour of the West Indies.

Vaas, who retired from international cricket in 2009 having claimed 355 wickets from 111 Tests, was appointed by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) only on Friday and announced his resignation effective March 26, informing the board that he will not go with the national team on the tour of the West Indies. The 47year-old Vaas, who replaced Australian David Saker, resigned over a pay dispute and will not travel with the team to the Caribbean, the cricket board said. He will not be available to tour West Indies as a member of the support staff, the board added, and described Vaas' decision as "irresponsible."

"It is particularly disheartening to note that in an economic climate such as the one facing the entire globe right now, Mr. Vaas has made this sudden and irresponsible move based on personal monetary gain," SLC said in a statement. In a strongly-worded statement, the SLC said it refused Vaas' demand for an increase in pay, blaming the former left-arm fast bowler of handing in his resignation at the last minute.

"It is extremely disheartening that a legend such as Chaminda Vaas has resorted to holding the administration, the cricketers, and indeed the game at ransom," the SLC said, adding that Vaas is already receiving pay that is in keeping with his experience, qualifications, and expertise. The SLC went on to say that Vaas yeoman service over the years has been appreciated by the cricket board and was also rewarded.