Assistant coach Nic Pothas submitted his resignation to the BCB after completing last month’s West Indies tour.
Just a month before the Champions Trophy, it has been revealed that Nic Pothas is no longer part of Bangladesh’s coaching staff. The South African former wicketkeeper-batsman has ended his tenure as the assistant coach of the Bangladesh national team, leaving a few months before his two-year contract was set to expire.
Pothas had submitted his resignation to the BCB about a month ago, and on Thursday, he shared an emotional message on social media, making his departure public.
Speaking to bdnews24.com, BCB’s Cricket Operations chief, Shahriar Nafees, confirmed that Pothas left before the start of the new year.
“Pothas has not been with the BCB since the West Indies tour last month. He submitted his resignation on December 19, citing urgent family reasons. The BCB has accepted his resignation.”
In his farewell message on social media, the 51-year-old coach extended his best wishes to the Bangladesh cricket team.
“Like all good things, this too had to end. I’ve had an incredible time with some wonderful people while working with the Bangladesh team. Together, we broke records, created history, and built incredible memories.”
“Now it’s time to spend some quality moments at home. Let’s see what the next chapter holds. Best wishes to everyone associated with Bangladesh cricket for the exciting year ahead. I’ll miss you all.”
Pothas joined Bangladesh as assistant coach in April 2023 on a two-year contract. His journey began with a series against Ireland in Chelmsford, England, in May. Now, his stint ends after another overseas series.
Following Shane McDermott’s departure, Pothas had been handling the role of fielding coach in recent series. Earlier, during Jamie Siddons’ absence, he also stepped in as batting coach for a few series.
According to the initial contract, Pothas was supposed to work with players like Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mehidy Hasan Miraz through the upcoming Champions Trophy, scheduled to start on February 20 in Dubai and Pakistan. Nafees indicated that a replacement might not be appointed until after the tournament.
“It’s unlikely we’ll bring in someone new before the Champions Trophy. The tournament involves a maximum of five matches, and there isn’t much time to make an immediate appointment. After the Champions Trophy, we’ll look into hiring a long-term fielding or assistant coach.”
Pothas, known to have close ties with former head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, leaves a coaching staff that has now been reduced to four members.
The current staff includes head coach Phil Simmons, senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin, fast bowling coach Andre Adams, and strength and conditioning coach Nathan Kiely.
