Donald turns down NZ bowling coach role

Former South Africa fast bowler Allan Donald, who had verbally committed to becoming New Zealand's fast bowling coach, has withdrawn from the role as he is seeking a position with Cricket South Africa.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive, Justin Vaughan, said Donald had contacted NZC over the weekend to inform them of his sudden change of heart. "We did everything possible to retain Allan but it is understandable that a role in South Africa would be attractive to both him and his family," Vaughan said in a statement.

"Unfortunately that is the nature of professional sport and although I understand the reasons for Allan's decision, it is disappointing considering the positive discussions we had with Allan about moving to New Zealand and his desire to work with the team. It is also a disappointment as he contributed well during the ten-week stint he had with the team earlier in the year."

Donald had worked with New Zealand on a contract basis from January this year till the end of the World Cup. He was in the running for the Australia bowling coach job, but after he lost out to former Australia fast bowler Craig McDermott last month, had said he wanted to "commit" to New Zealand.

Speculation has grown over the last couple of days that Gary Kirsten, who recently coached India with great success, is set to take over as head coach of the South African team, with Donald assisting him as the bowling coach. Cricket South Africa (CSA) is likely to announce the new national coach on Monday.