Former South African cricketer Neil McKenzie has stepped down from his position as the batting coach of Bangladesh cricket team, citing family reasons on Thursday (August 20).
McKenzie, who was appointed as Bangladesh's batting consultant in July 2018, wants to stay with his family amid the COVID-19 pandemic since he has been away from his family for too long and, therefore, he has decided to resign from the position with Bangladesh team.
The 44-year-old has also conveyed his decision to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) via a letter. However, former South African batsman’s contract with the Bangladesh team was not on a permanent basis, serving only before and during limited-overs assignments. McKenzie’s last assignment with Bangladesh was home series against Zimbabwe in March 2020.
McKenzie told ESPNCricinfo: “Yes, I've resigned, the only reason being time away from the family. With COVID, the schedule, and doing all formats, the time away from my young family would be too much.”
He further added, “I've loved being a part of the Tigers and will always have a soft spot for Bangladesh cricket and the great guys I've been fortunate to work with.”
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Meanwhile, BCB chief executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury confirmed the same in a statement: “Neil has informed us that he was unable to continue as the Bangladesh batting coach, as in the changed world scenario it was important for him to stay close to the family in South Africa,”
He added, “He has been a much-admired coach here and I wish to thank him for the work he has put in with the Bangladeshi batsmen, especially in white-ball cricket where the progress has been evident. On behalf of the BCB, I wish him the very best.”
Noteworthy, under McKenzie, whose only assignment in Test cricket was during the tour of India last year, while Bangladesh won the ODI series against West Indies and Zimbabwe at home, as well as the Ireland tri-series in May last year.
McKenzie joined Mzansi Super League franchise Jozi Stars as a mentor and consultant.
