Buchanan confirms retirement

Australian coach John Buchanan has confirmed that he will step down after the World Cup in the Caribbean in March/April next year.

Buchanan took over the coaching role from Geoff Marsh in 1999 and has coached the Australian team to a 75% win record from 267 international matches.

Under Buchanan, Australia has won 24 Test series, drawn one and lost just two which were in India in 2000-2001 and in England last year.

In a statement released by Bunchanan he said: “To see players come into the side and fulfill their talent has made this role a truly satisfying one.”

“I have had a thoroughly enjoyable time in the position and feel I have made a contribution to the overall success Australia has achieved on the world cricketing stage over the past seven years.”

“All cricketers make sacrifices to cricket over their family. I will have the opportunity after the 2007 World Cup to devote more time to my family,” he added.

Bunchanan has the best possible opportunity to end his time as Australian coach with the upcoming Champions Trophy, Ashes and World Cup tournaments, which he sees as a chance to go out on a high.

“I look forward to leading the team through this period and then sitting down with Cricket Australia and discussing what contribution I can make in a continued involvement after the World Cup,” he said.

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland said a management committee would start the process in looking for a replacement within the next month.

It is understood from previous reports that Tim Nielsen and Tom Moody are favourites for the position.