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Not interested in role of England team director: Kirsten

Last updated on: February 03, 2014 20:17 IST

Former India coach Gary Kirsten is not interested in taking up the role of England Team Director and has distanced himself from the job.

The 46-year-old former Proteas opener, who guided India to the World Cup triumph and No 1 ranking in Test cricket, was a third favourite in a list drawn up by bookies to replace Andy Flower.

He will be seen as chief coach of Delhi Daredevils in the upcoming seventh season of the Indian Premier League.

According to a report by ESPN Cricinfo, Kirsten has reportedly said he is not interested even if he is offered the job.

He also told reporters in India that circumstances haven't changed since stepping down as coach of South Africa last July.

Despite leading South Africa to the No. 1 ranking in Tests, Kirsten cited the amount of time spent away from home as the reason for quitting. He said the same explanation prevents an interest in returning to international cricket.

"I suppose it is flattering that people are thinking about me," Kirsten was quoted as saying by ESPN Cricinfo.

"As far as I am concerned, my sentiments have not changed."

Kirsten was speaking ahead of the IPL auction as he prepares to assemble a team for Delhi Daredevils, where he was appointed head coach in September.

The job involves no more than 10 weeks away from his home in Cape Town and his three young children, a far cry from the months spent abroad in international cricket.

His new role is thought to be worth more than $500,000 (£306,000) for a little more than two months' work. It has been reported that the ECB would need to double that figure to land Kirsten, who is also contracted for 50 days a year as batting consultant for South Africa.

Former England left-arm spinner Ashley Giles and Tom Moody, a member of two World Cup-winning Australian teams as well former chief coach of Sri Lanka, are in the race for the top job.

Image: Gary Kirsten

Photograph: Duif du Toit/Gallo Images/Getty Images