Former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis has left his position as the head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), having taken over the role in October 2015.
His departure follows the IPL franchises’ failure to qualify for the playoffs in 2019; he had previously led his team to three successive playoffs.
Before taking over as the coach – replacing now England’s head coach Trevor Bayliss, Kallis had represented KKR as a player.
Simon Katich, Kallis’ assistant during their time in KKR, has also left his post. Katich was appointed around the same time as Kallis, and the former Australia batsman also coached the team’s Caribbean Premier League franchise, Trinbago Knight Riders, helping them win back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018. The tenure with Trinbago also comes to an end for Katich, who will now coach the Manchester Originals team in the inaugural season of The Hundred.
Kallis, however, could remain a part of the Knight Riders brand, according to team CEO Venky Mysore.
“Jacques Kallis has been an integral part of the KKR family and will always remain so,” Mysore said while announcing the changes. “We will be exploring ways of working with Jacques as we pursue our vision of establishing the Knight Riders brand as a global brand.”
Kallis, too, released a statement following the decision.
“After nine fantastic years with KKR since 2011, as a player, mentor and Head Coach, it’s time to explore new opportunities,” he said. “I would to like to thank the owners, management and fellow players for many happy memories.”
Knight Riders are yet to announce replacements for the two coaches.
