Makhaya Ntini was Zimbabwe’s bowling coach for two years

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Legendary South Africa pace bowler Makhaya Ntini has stepped down as Zimbabwe’s bowling coach with immediate effect.

Ntini took up the role in January 2016 on a two-year contract and was even made the interim head coach when Dav Whatmore was sacked in May 2016. He went back to being the national team’s bowling coach when Heath Streak was named as Zimbabwe’s new head coach.

“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,” a release from Zimbabwe Cricket said. “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.”

Ntini’s resignation comes ahead of a busy schedule for Zimbabwe as they will play an ODI tri-series in Bangladesh from January 15. The tri-series also includes Sri Lanka.

After that, Zimbabwe will host the World Cup qualifiers in March, where they will aim to secure a spot in the 2019 World Cup, which will be held in England and Wales.