09/05/2008 11:23 AM
John Bracewell is to end his coaching tenure with New Zealand at the end of next season in April 2009.
Bracewell, who took over the position from Denis Aberhart in 2003, said he wants to pursue other coaching opportunities in cricket.
He has been linked with a return to the Gloucestershire base where he developed a successful record in one-day competitions especially.
New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan said: "John has informed me that he will not be looking to extend his contract for another term and will instead pursue other coaching opportunities in cricket."
Bracewell, who is coaching the side in England at the moment, will carry on to lead the side in next season's program which includes a tour to Pakistan starting in August, two Tests in Australia in November, a tour by the West Indies in December-January, a five-match one-day series in New Zealand against Australia, and a three-Test, five-ODI series against India in March.
Bracewell said: "I have enjoyed my time with the Black Caps and am looking forward to future challenges at the conclusion of my contract next year."
Vaughan said NZC would start its quest for a new coach immediately and would canvas internationally to fill the berth.
"John has taken the Black Caps a long way in his time with the team and he has driven some tremendous results, most notably in the one-day game," he said.
"We will be looking for someone who can build on John's work."
"We have an extremely talented group of players with some really exciting individuals entering the international game."
"I believe they have the makings of a very successful team, and the coach will be selected to realise this potential," Vaughan said.