James Franklin leaves Durham to pursue an opportunity overseas

Neil Killeen will lead Durham for the remainder of the season

Durham head coach James Franklin has been given permission to leave the club with immediate effect in order to pursue an opportunity overseas.

Neil Killeen, supported by Durham's coaching staff, will lead the club during their three remaining LV= Insurance County Championship matches.

Franklin was due to leave the club at the end of the season following an announcement on September 3.

^{Neil Killeen (right) [Stu Forster/Getty Images]}

The former New Zealand international replaced Jon Lewis as head coach ahead of the 2019 season and oversaw "a period of transition" at the club.

When the news of his departure was first announced, Franklin said: "It has been a privilege to work with my fellow support staff and a great group of players.

"The time is now right for me to explore other opportunities to develop my coaching career."

Former cricketer Killeen spent his entire playing career with Durham, taking 607 wickets in over 350 appearances across all formats. He has previously served as the club's 2nd XI coach before becoming assistant coach and bowling coach in 2019.