Mark Coles has stepped down as Pakistan national women’s team head coach citing family reasons and will be returning to New Zealand next week.

Coles took over the responsibilities in October 2017 and had a contract until the end of the International Cricket Council Women’s T20 World Cup Australia 2020 to be held from February 21 to March 8.

Coles enjoyed his time with Pakistan women’s team and believes the team will continue to make an upward progress

 “It is with a very heavy heart that I have decided to step down from my coaching role, something which I had enjoyed tremendously. However, at this time my family responsibilities are such that they need my undivided attention and focus,” said Coles. “I have been thinking about this for some time and taking into account Pakistan has some critical assignments in the next few months, I thought it was fair to the side I convey my decision to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) so that they have enough time to find a replacement.”

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay in Lahore and working with the women’s team as well as all those who are associated with women’s cricket. I will miss working with all these girls and will always remain their supporter and well-wisher,” he added.

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The Pakistan national women’s team achieved major results during Coles’ tenure as head coach.

They are presently sitting fifth in the ICC Women’s Championship and have an outstanding chance of qualifying directly for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021.

Under his watch in 50-over cricket, Pakistan lost 2-1 to New Zealand, beat Sri Lanka 3-0, lost 1-0 to Bangladesh,  lost 3-0 to Australia, defeated the West Indies 2-1 and drew 1-1 with South Africa.

In the shortest format this year, Pakistan women narrowly lost 2-1 (in Super Over) to the West Indies and 3-2 to South Africa.

Meanwhile, the PCB has appointed batting coach Iqbal Imam as interim head coach for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, which will be played from 26 October to 4 November in Lahore.