Lance Klusener steps down as Zimbabwe's batting coach ahead of T20 World Cup 2022

With immediate effect, Lance Klusener has left his role as Zimbabwe's batting coach. Zimbabwe Cricket and the former South African all-rounder mutually decided to end the deal. According to Klusener's agent, the choice was made because the all-rounder wanted to explore coaching opportunities abroad, which may limit his availability for the Zimbabwean team.

Zimbabwe’s last international outing was against Australia, where they scripted history by defeating the Men in Yellow in the final ODI of the three-match series. Before the historic achievement, Zimbabwe had hosted the Indian side for three ODIs, which they ended up losing 3-0. Though they lost it, Zimbabwe came very close to a win in the final game but Indian bowlers held their nerves.

“According to his agent, the decision follows Klusener's desire to pursue professional engagements around the globe which will impact his full-time availability for the national team's programs,” Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) said in a statement.

“We are grateful to Lance for everything he has contributed during his time with us, including helping us to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 which gets underway in Australia in a few days. Unfortunately, due to his pressing commitments elsewhere, he could not continue with us on a full-time basis and we agreed it was in the best interests of both parties to terminate his contract. We wish him the best as he pursues new endeavors," ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni said.

In March of this year, Klusener accepted a contract to serve as the batting coach for Zimbabwe. He had previously held the role between 2016 and 2018. In addition, he led Afghanistan's coaching staff from 2019 till the end of the T20 World Cup in 2021.

Zimbabwe eye for a Super 12 spot at T20 World Cup

With less than two weeks until the commencement of Zimbabwe's campaign for the T20 World Cup in Australia, Klusener quit his position. Zimbabwe is placed in the Group B of the first round alongside West Indies, Ireland, and Scotland. The teams to finish at the first and second spot of this group will move to the Super 12. Their opening match is on October 17 against Ireland.