Tim Nielsen has announced he is stepping down from his role as head coach of the Australian cricket team after four years of 'living the dream'.
The 43-year-old confirmed his departure after his side's draw in the final test of the series against Sri Lanka in Colombo, a result which means the team have won nine series out of 15 since the London-born coach took over. Those looking at the mobile betting will know that's not a bad return.
Nielsen says he decided to quit after being told he would have to reapply for his job after the Australian Cricket board announced they were restricting the management team and admits that despite the disappointment of not being offered a new contract, it may just be the right time to walk away from the job.
"Unfortunately I wasn't good enough to play cricket for Australia, so I've been living the dream. This has been the greatest job that I could do," said Nielsen.
"I'm very proud of the fact that I've been able to do it for the past four years, which I feel is a long term in international sport."
Nielsen has had a relatively successful time as coach of his country but unfortunately he'll always be remembered for his side's disappointed 3-1 Ashes defeat against England earlier this year. That loss has prompted the board's decision to change the selection panel with head of selectors Andrew Hilditch and selector Greg Chappell also falling foul of the changes. People who bet on sports will be keeping a close eye on the shake up.
However, the experience hasn't deterred him and he says he will be looking for other opportunities within the game."I'm a cricket coach, I'm a cricket person. I certainly will be looking at other opportunities and seeing what's out there," he added.
