BBL: Vettori steps down as Brisbane Heat head coach

Brisbane: Daniel Vettori terminated his association with Big Bash League (BBL) side Brisbane Heat after managing the franchise for four years.

Vettori ended his coaching job with Brisbane based side on a winning note on Friday as his team defeated Melbourne Stars at The Gabba in Brisbane. Brisbane Heat have a strong chance to qualify for the semifinals if results go in their favour. Brisbane are currently placed at the fourth position.

• "After careful consideration over the past few weeks, I have decided not to seek a contract renewal as head coach of the Brisbane Heat," Vettori said in a statement on Saturday.
• "I informed the General Manager of my decision prior to the game against Melbourne Stars at the MCG and that was accepted by the club. I told the playing group and coaching and support staff of my decision before last night's match," he added.
• "I have loved my time at Brisbane, firstly as a player and then as a coach, and the experience of being part of the growth of the BBL has been personally rewarding," Vettori said.
• "Thank you to all the professional and dedicated support staff and coaches - they have done sterling work for the team over the years. I wish the Heat organisation all the best into the future," Vettori said at a post-match press conference.

Earlier, former Black Caps skipper Brendon McCullum announced his BBL retirement. He played his final BBL match on Friday. McCullum made his BBL debut in 2011 and scored 920 runs in 35 matches.

Meanwhile, Brisbane Heat captain Chris Lynn paid a rich tribute to Vettori and McCullum.

"It was important for us to do our best to send Baz off a winner in our last home game but equally so for Dan. His [McCullum's] composure throughout our campaigns has been a constant in the background and I'm grateful to have benefited from his experience and knowledge of the game," Lynn said.