TOM Moody has entertained cricket lovers at too many grounds across the world to mention.

But for sheer charm, beauty and serenity, no stage ranks higher for one of Worcestershire's favourite sons than New Road itself.

"It's easily the most picturesque ground in the world," admits Moody. "I've had the good fortune to be involved at this great place, both as a player and coach.

"It's a sensational backdrop with Worcester Cathedral. To have that, at times, it puts a little bit of sparkle into you, even on a bad day! Nothing can beat it."

With such sensational County headquarters, heading into work each morning held a satisfying perk for the equally cultured Moody.

But now, after four-a-half-years as director of cricket, the imposing 6ft 6in figure of South Australian stock is no longer taking that regular journey.

Moody, 39, has traded in pears for a fruitful new beginning in Sri Lanka, where he hopes to transform the flagging 1996 World Cup winners back to the top of the global stage.

Despite a long, flourishing Worcestershire career that stretches back to 1991, the former all-rounder is in no mood to look back with any shred of sadness.

"I'm not sure that it's as much a time of sadness for leaving," added Moody. "It's a time to enjoy and reflect.

"I've enjoyed a terrific relationship and journey with the County, both as a player and coach. It's been an incredibly enjoyable time and a successful one.

"I've had a lot of good times, made a lot of good friends off the field and they will still always be good friends.

"You never know, I could be back next year at New Road -- but in the visiting changing room!"

The consensus among most sportsmen-turned-coaches is that there is no greater enjoyment than being out there in the heat of the action.

But while Moody tasted success in his eight years as a County player, helping lead the club to Benson & Hedges Cup and Natwest Trophy glory in 1991 and 1994 respectively, the delight in managing today's crop comes in equal measure for the Adelaide-born coach.

And Moody has brought silverware to the cabinet during his stint as director of cricket, when Worcestershire claimed the Division Two Championship in 2003, while the club finished C&G Trophy runners-up to Gloucestershire in 2003 and 2004.

Moody said: "I've enjoyed it equally. I've never regretted the time I retired as a player. It's completely different being involved as a coach.

"It's extremely enjoyable in a way, because as a coach you have 11 chances of having a good day, whereas as a player it's down to yourself.

"I think the most enjoyable feeling is when one of our lads gets the opportunity to play for England and knowing I played a tiny role in their journey. That gives me tremendous satisfaction.

"Also, when you see young players coming through, whom you've had an association with from the age of 14 until they get their first cap, it's a great feeling.

"Obviously, the success we had reaching Lord's in two consecutive years was a highlight for me. It was disappointing not to have the opportunity to walk away with the trophy, but I'm sure the side's time will come."

For the most part, spectators at New Road will remember Moody for his exploits as a player.

After one season at Warwickshire in 1990, Moody joined the County the following year and made an astonishing home debut, striking 160 against Kent in a Sunday League fixture.

He went from strength to strength at Worcestershire, smashing 25 first-class centuries, scoring over 1,000 runs in a season on four occasions, and captaining the side from 1995 to 1999.

Moody was also deadly with the ball, proving more than capable as a medium-pace swing bowler. He left the County originally in 1999 and, dogged by back injury, retired in 2000/01.

Of his debut ton, Moody said: "Moving to a new club, it was nice to prove yourself to your new team-mates and show you're worthy of the overseas position.

"It's always good to start off your career with a big score and get that under your belt.

"I could not have asked for a better start than that.

"We had success in '91 and '94, winning hands down at Lord's. It was nice to be part of a victorious team against Lancashire and Warwickshire.

"We had some fun times then and there have been so many superb cricketers I've had the good fortune to play alongside."