Logie out 'by mutual consent'

Gus Logie: 'I am disappointed' © Getty Images Enlarge

As widely predicted in the aftermath of victory in the Champions Trophy, Gus Logie's tenure as coach of the West Indies is over. The official announcement said that his contract was terminated early by mutual consent.

Logie was appointed to the role in 2003 and his contract did not expire until 2005, but in the wake of two comprehensive series defeats by England, even winning the one-day trophy was not enough to save him.

"It is no secret that the West Indies Cricket Board is looking for a foreign coach and they have already spoken to a lot of people," Logie said last week. "Whoever comes in, I hope he gets a lot of support; certainly a lot more than what I was getting. We wanted instant results and if you don't get that then the knives are always going to be out for you.

"I am disappointed. I made a contribution and have been denied the opportunity to work with what has just begun to blossom. A foreign coach will come into this area and will be given the resources and authority I never had to get the job done and this just when results were being seen. I have made a contribution throughout my life to West Indies cricket, and it is time I move on."

Under Logie, West Indies won only four out of 22 Tests, although their one-day record was better, with 20 wins out of 39.

Although the timing of the decision of the board might seem inopportune, it wanted to give Logie's replacement time to settle in ahead of West Indies participation in the VB Series in Australia in January.