Darren Lehmann has resigned as head coach of Northern Superchargers after just one season with The Hundred franchise in England.
Under the former Australia batsman and coach, the Superchargers missed the knockout stages in the inaugural edition of the 100-ball competition last summer, finishing fifth out of eight teams.
The Superchargers announced on Wednesday that Marcus North, another former Australian Test batsman who is director of cricket at Durham, "will take on key cricket responsibilities and, along with general manager Andy Dawson, will be responsible for the appointment of the new men's head coach." "
Lehmann, 51, cited uncertainty about possible travel restrictions and isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic as a factor in his decision not to sign up for another campaign with the Yorkshire-based franchise.
Lehmann said: "It is with a heavy heart that I have made the decision to step down as men's head coach at Superchargers.
“For many people, the continuing uncertainty around COVID-19, quarantining and restrictions seems to play a part in your decisions.
“I really enjoyed my time with the Superchargers. Last season, despite all the challenges of COVID, was one of my coaching highlights.
“The UK public has fallen behind the new competition and I see it moving from strength to strength.
"I thank the supporters of Northern Superchargers, our coaching staff and players and wish them all the best."
Lehmann's announcement comes weeks after it was confirmed that former Yorkshire coach Andrew Gayle will not return to Headingley this summer as a Supercharger assistant.
Gayle, one of 16 members of the backroom staff sacked at Yorkshire in the wake of racism allegations leveled by former off-spinner Azim Rafiq, was on a one-year contract for the 2021 season and his deal has not been extended.
Northern Superchargers President Heather Jackson said: “We are extremely grateful to Darren for the hard work he put in to prepare and lead the men's team for the first season of The Hundred. We wish him the best of luck in the future. Best wishes for you."