Former South Africa cricketer, Jonty Rhodes, has stepped down as the mentor of the Mumbai Indian after 9 seasons with Indian Premier League giants. The South African legend apparently wants to focus on his personal business ventures and hence decided to quit the Ambani-owned outfit.

The IPL-franchise and current champions won the tournament three times with him on board and team owner, Akash Ambani, was full of praise of the South African.

"Jonty has been a pillar of strength and energy in Mumbai Indians," Ambani said. "His contribution cannot be valued in words. We respect his decision and wish him the best for the future."

Jonty Rhodes has been replaced by James Pamment as the new fielding coach of the Mumbai Indians. Pamment is a former fielding coach of the New Zealand cricket team and is already familiar with the Mumbai Indians as he was the coach of Northern Districts when they faced Mumbai Indians in the Champions League three years.

This news comes at a time when the Bangladesh Cricket Board are actively seeking a coach to replace the departed Chandika Hathurasingha. According to BCB president, Nazmul Hasan Papon, the board has already interviewed former coach Richard Pybus and will also sit with Phil Simmons.

He also, however, stated that there is another person in contention for an interview before Phil Simmons. With Jonty now resigning from his IPL role, one could only assume as to whether he is now in BCB’s shortlist or not.