Klusener steps down as Zimbabwe batting coach ahead of T20 World Cup

Former Proteas all-rounder Lance Klusener has left his position as Zimbabwe's batting coach with immediate effect, a week before the T20 World Cup in Australia.

Klusener rejoined the Zimbabwe technical team as batting coach in March this year, after he had previously served in the same position between 2016 and 2018.

The South African leaves his role just two weeks before Zimbabwe's participation at the T20 World Cup in Australia.

Zimbabwe was set to make their ICC return after being suspended at last year's T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. Zimbabwe is in Group B alongside Ireland, Scotland and the West Indies, with the top two teams progressing to the Super 12 stage.

According to his agent, the decision follows Klusener's desire to pursue professional engagements around the globe.

This will impact his full-time availability for Zimbabwe and they reached a mutual agreement for Klusener to step down.

Klusener has coached in various capacities worldwide, including Afghanistan's head coach from 2019 to 2021.

"We are grateful to Lance for everything he has contributed during his time with us, including helping us to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022, which gets underway in Australia in a few days," said Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni.

"Unfortunately, due to his pressing commitments elsewhere, he could not continue with us on a full-time basis and we agreed it was in the best interests of both parties to terminate his contract. We wish him the best as he pursues new endeavours."

Klusener is also the coach of the SA20 franchise, the Lucknow Super Giants, with the inaugural tournament set to get under way in January 2023.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe gets their T20 World Cup campaign under way against