Buchanan is out of Kolkata Knight Riders

KOLKATA - Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team director John Buchanan has become the first casualty of the side’s dismal performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Knight Riders and Buchanan, who recently joined as consultant with England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), parted ways amicably Thursday.

Jay Mehta, KKR’s co-owner, said Buchanan in his communication stated that he could not achieve everything he had set out to. Under the circumstances it was agreed that he should part with the team on the friendly terms.

“John Buchanan has informed Knight Riders that despite his hard work over the past two seasons, he has not been able take the franchise into the future as per his vision for this team. We have amicably agreed that to release him from his contract with immediate effect,” Mehta said in a statement.

“I would like to state that John is a great coach. He had a vision for Knight Riders and did not waver from this vision. Unfortunately, it has not brought the results that are so necessary to this franchise.”

“Knight Riders would like to wish him every success in his future wherever that may take him,” he said.

Buchanan, who was in the eye of storm for his controversial multiple captaincy theory and reported fallout with Sourav Ganguly, said Knight Riders have a strong foundation for the next IPL edition.

“Obviously, I am very disappointed in not being able to continue with the Knight Riders and complete the work I started some 18 months. I think we have the makings of a very good IPL franchise, and the foundations are there for 2010,” the former Australian coach said.

“I would like to thank everyone who supported me at Knight Riders, and I wish the team every success in 2010.”