Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders have decided to part ways with head coach Jacques Kallis and his assistant Simon Katich.
The decision brings to an end a nine-year stay with the Kolkata outfit for Kallis who took over the head coach duties in October, 2015. Under the former South Africa all-rounder, Kolkata Knight Riders have managed to reach the play-offs on three consecutive occasions but the title has continued to elude them.
In the most recent 2019 edition, the team missed out on play-off qualification after finishing fifth on the table despite making a blazing start to their campaign.
“Jacques Kallis has been an integral part of the KKR family and will always remain so,” KKR chief executive Venky Mysore was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
Kallis has been associated with KKR since 2011.
“We will be exploring ways of working with Jacques as we pursue our vision of establishing the Knight Riders brand as a global brand,” he added.
“After nine fantastic years with KKR since 2011, as a player, mentor and Head Coach, it’s time to explore new opportunities,” Kallis said on his part in a separate statement.
“I would to like to thank the owners, management and fellow players for many happy memories.”
No replacements for Kallis and Katich have been announced yet by Kolkata Knight Riders. The franchise are two-time champions of the IPL and managed to win the title in 2012 and 2014.