Wellington: New Zealand cricket coach John Bracewell will step down when his contract expires in April next year, New Zealand Cricket said today.

"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," New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan said.

Bracewell, a former off-spinner who took 102 wickets in 41 Tests for New Zealand, has previously said he is interested in returning to coaching in English county cricket.

The 50-year-old, currently in England with the touring New Zealand team, coached Gloucestershire for five years before taking up the top New Zealand post in 2003.

Vaughan paid tribute to Bracewell, who has sometimes been a controversial figure for his aggressive style, saying he had produced some tremendous results, "most notably in the one-day game".

New Zealand Cricket would start looking internationally for a replacement.

"We currently have an extremely talented group of players with some really exciting individuals entering the international game," Vaughan said.

"I believe they have the makings of a very successful team, and the coach will be selected to realise this potential."

Although Vaughan did not refer to any candidates, former New Zealand captain and Indian coach John Wright is a strong contender. Wright is currently New Zealand's high performance coach. 
Source : PTI