Aberhart withdraws from process

Denis Aberhart has withdrawn from the selection process for the role of TelstraClear Black Caps coach to pursue other opportunities.

Aberhart, who has been coach of the TelstraClear Black Caps since August 2001, said he was looking forward to taking up a new position outside of cricket.

"I was not guaranteed a further term with New Zealand Cricket and another exciting opportunity presented itself and is likely to be confirmed later in the week," he said.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Martin Snedden wished Aberhart well.

"Denis has made a significant contribution to the TelstraClear Black Caps.

"The team is No 3 in Test cricket and No 7 in ODI cricket.

"The team has had some notable successes during Denis's two years as coach including excellent team performances in Australia during the 2001-02 tour, the home ODI and Test series wins against India last season, our first ever Test series win in the West Indies and the recent tri-series win in Sri Lanka."

"The selection process for the coach's position is continuing and the successful candidate is likely to be announced next week," Snedden said.