Gary Kirsten not to renew South Africa coaching contract for "family reasons"
Kirsten was appointed by South Africa in August 2011 for a two-year period after guiding India to their second ICC World Cup triumph in April 2011. He had quit the BCCI job also on family reasons!
Citing family reasons, South Africa coach Gary Kirsten has decided not to sign a contract extension with the Cricket South Africa which ends in July this year.
Kirsten was appointed in August 2011 for a two-year period with an option to renew it for a further two years. His contract required him to inform the Board by April 30 2013 whether he wished to exercise that option.
"Gary has a young family and it is understandable that he wishes to spend more time at home," commented CSA president and Board chairman Chris Nenzani.
During his tenure as coach of the Proteas side, the 45-year-old took South Africa to world No.1 Test rank with series wins both at home and away.
"I would like to thank him for his tremendous contribution to the well being of the Proteas over the past two years. It is obvious to all of us, whether we have been close to the Proteas or simply fans watching from the stands, the standard of excellence that he has brought to our national team and it will be wonderful if he can complete his tenure by bringing home the ICC Champions Trophy next month," Nenzani added.
The Board president also said that the CSA will move swiftly to sign Kirsten's successor as important tournaments are lined up post ICC Champions Trophy.
"With the Proteas due to tour Sri Lanka in July and August and Pakistan in November and important home series coming up against India and Australia next season it is important that we move quickly to identify his successor. The Board will be following due process as far as this is concerned," he said.
The former South Africa-batsman thanked CSA for their support during his tenure as South Africa coach.
"I would like to thank Cricket South Africa for the confidence they showed in entrusting me with the fortunes of the national team. It has been a huge priviledge to represent my country as player and coach and to have been given the responsibility of growing the team.
"I would particularly like to thank Cricket South Africa for allowing me the flexibility to combine my coaching job with my family life during my tenure.
"There have been many highlights over the past two years which have been well documented and I have every confidence that the Proteas will continue to go from strength to strength."