Makhaya Ntini steps down as Zimbabwe bowling coach

Former Protea speedster Makhaya Ntini has resigned from his post as Zimbabwe bowling coach, citing personal reasons. The news was confirmed by Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) who issued an official release earlier today. Interestingly, in September last year, were reports suggesting that Ntini’s contract was unlikely to be renewed.

The Zimbabwe job was the South African’s first foray into coaching after his international retirement in 2011. Ntini was appointed in charge of the bowling unit in January 2016 for a term of two years. During the stint, he was even elevated to the post of an interim coach in May 2016 after Dav Whatmore was sacked.

The 40-year-old, however, was relieved of the head coach job in October, when former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak took over. Ntini however, was retained on board as Streak’s support staff and subsequently became the bowling coach again.

ZC expressed their disappointment in Ntini’s decision, stating that the ex-cricketer ‘brought a wealth of experience and practical knowledge’ to Zimbabwean cricket.

Official statement

In a release, ZC said, “It is with regret that Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) announces that Makhaya Ntini, the National Team Bowling Coach, has tendered his resignation from ZC, with immediate effect.

“Makhaya has brought a wealth of experience and practical knowledge to ZC, and ZC and its players and coaching staff were fortunate to have had an opportunity to work closely with him during this period, and to learn from his many years of playing for Cricket South Africa at the highest level.”

“While reluctantly accepting his resignation, ZC fully appreciates and respects the reasons behind Makhaya’s decision, and wishes him all the very best for the future,” the statement read.

Zimbabwe next plays an ODI tri-series starting on 15 January in Bangladesh which will include the hosts and Sri Lanka. The Africa side will then host the 2019 World Cup qualifiers in March, which will include teams like Afghanistan, Ireland and West Indies.