Yorkshire are likely to be searching for a new second XI coach after Paul Farbrace moved a step closer to being appointed as the new head coach of Sri Lanka at the weekend.

Kent-born Farbrace has flown to Sri Lanka ahead of an interview, thought to be today, for a role he has renewed interest in recently having initially pulled out of the running back in October.

The news broke early on Saturday morning before the White Rose county issued a statement in which they said they had reluctantly granted permission for the 46-year-old to speak to his prospective new employers.

And the Island Cricket website in Sri Lanka even wrote that it is almost a done deal.

“Farbrace has had discussions with his present employer Yorkshire CCC, and has confirmed that he can take up the job,” a source told them.

“SLC executive-committee has also agreed unanimously Farbrace as the best candidate for the job. So, basically, it is confirmed. The interview on Monday will basically be to discuss the way forward.”

If appointed, Farbrace, a former assistant coach of Sri Lanka, would take over from Graham Ford in January.

“We have given permission for Sri Lanka Cricket to speak to Paul,” confirmed Yorkshire’s chief executive Mark Arthur.

“We were approached last week, and after discussing the situation with Martyn (Moxon, Yorkshire’s director of professional cricket), we have reluctantly agreed for Paul to travel to Sri Lanka next week to open talks with the Sri Lanka Cricket Board.

“Paul has done a tremendous job in developing the exciting talent that is starting to come to fruition at the club. Over the past couple of years, he has been an integral part of our success in developing players for first-team cricket.

“It would be a great shame to lose someone of Paul’s talent, but we are well aware of his own personal ambitions. He remains under contract with the club.”

Farbrace has been a big hit since arriving at Headingley ahead of the 2012 summer. He has been credited as the main influence on Yorkshire’s improved fielding performances.