KENT'S director of cricket Graham Ford has turned down the chance to coach the India Test team.

The 46-year-old issued a statement saying he had refused the BCCI's offer to coach their national side, opting instead to see out the remainder of his 18-month deal at St Lawrence.

He said: "I am very grateful to the club for allowing me to go to India to find out more about the job of coaching the Indian team.

"I have had chance to reflect on the offer and their urgency to fill the vacant position.

"After careful consideration, I have decided to continue my work here at Kent. This has been a really difficult decision.

"I am honoured that India have shown such interest in my capabilities, but feel that this is the right decision for me and my family."

The decision will be seen as something of a coup for Kent who, under Ford's management, have made gradual strides in one-day and four-day cricket over the past three seasons.