Gary Kirsten’s stepping down as South Africa coach doesn’t surprise Dale Steyn
Gary Kirsten will step down as coach of South Africa after the ICC Champions Trophy © Getty Images
Mumbai: May 14, 2013
Dale Steyn feels the decision of Gary Kirsten to step down as the coach of South Africa after the ICC Champions Trophy next month in England has not come as a surprise.
The fast bowler said he knew this was coming in a press conference in Mumbai on Tuesday. “I thought it was always coming. Gary is a massive family man, he loves his family. When we were in Australia and we had a 10-day break he jumped on a plane and flew home for three days to be with his family,” said Steyn.
“His stepping down as the T20 coach and allowing Russell Domingo to take over, it was tell tale signs that something was coming.
“I completely understand from where it is coming. I have spent almost 220 days of a year every year for the last five years (playing cricket). That what my life has been. I feel like I want to retire from cricket right now and he has been in this game since God knows. Hopefully he can finish his career with South Africa winning a trophy. That would be fantastic,” he said.
Asked about Domingo’s coaching skills, he added, “I think he is going to be great. He was in the shadow of Gary. Russell did a lot of work behind the scenes whilst Gary was the head coach. I think it is Russell’s turn now to stand up. He is a great coach and he is going to show people what he is capable of.”