Coach accepts Donald decision

England coach Peter Moores says he accepts Allan Donald’s decision not to continue in his role as the team's bowling coach for family reasons.

The 40-year-old former South Africa fast bowler, who has worked with England’s fast bowlers since May, ruled himself out of the tour to Sri Lanka and said he would therefore be unable to accept the job.

Moores, who invited Donald into the international set-up, admitted his decision was a blow to their future plans but respected his decision.

“Allan brought a lot to the squad while he was with us and we’re obviously going to miss his input,” said Moores.

“And whether he decides to move back to his second home at Warwickshire and do what is right for him and his family, we have to respect his decision.

“He had been on the international circuit for around 12 years as a highly-respected player and understandably he has made a personal decision to stay in one place and we wish him all the best with that.

Ottis Gibson is now favourite to take over from Donald, providing he is not offered the vacant job as coach of West Indies.

The Professional Cricketer Association’s player of the year is currently assisting Moores with the one-day side and the coach has been impressed with what he has seen from the veteran Durham bowler.

“We have a quality bowling coach with us in Ottis Gibson who will do a great job out in Sri Lanka,” Moores said.

“He worked with the high performance squad out in Perth last year and has a lot to offer.”