Kirsten to bid Team India adieu after World Cup

Gary Kirsten won't be renewing his contract as India coach.

According to well-informed sources the South African has decided against a renewal due to personal reasons.

The upcoming World Cup would be Kirsten's final assignement with Team India.

While most members of the team, including captain MS Dhoni, were keen on the South African getting an extension and continuing the good work he has done with the team, the latter, it seems, wants to stay with his family.

"So looks like Gary Kirsten will leave after the World Cup. He has done a tremedous job and we must applaud him," tweeted noted commentator Harsha Bhogle. 

"Never heard Kirsten talk about his contribution, only heard the players say so. That is how it must be," added Bhogle.

In his three-year tenure, Kirsten helped Team India secure the top rank in Tests while also securing commanding series wins over Australia, New Zealand and Sri Lanka amongst others.

It was also under him that India drew a Test series for the first time on South African soil recently.

If the reports are to be believed, the South African board is keen to appoint him as the successor to incumbent Corrie van Zyl, whose contract run outs after the World Cup.

As regards Team India, there are many names doing the rounds to succeed the South African.

Stephen Fleming, who guided Chennai Super Kings to the Indian Premier and Champions League T20 titles in his first season in charge last year, seems to be the front runner at the moment.

For more keep reading this space.