Phil Jaques quits Bulls to return to NSW Blues

Vince Rugari

Queensland Bulls cricket coach Phil Jaques has stepped down after two seasons, joining NSW as batting coach.

The former Test opening batsman has cited family reasons for the move back to Sydney, where he will work under Blues head coach Trent Johnston.

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The Bulls did not win a trophy in the Sheffield Shield or Matador Cup in his reign but he played a key role in the development of Usman Khawaja, Joe Burns, Matthew Renshaw, Mitchell Swepson, Chris Lynn, who all earned Australian call- ups under Jaques' watch.

"Stepping down was a very challenging decision to make, and not one that I made lightly, but I know it was the right one for my family and me," he said.

"I have enjoyed the chance to coach at a high level with Queensland and stand aside with the knowledge that there are a number of very special players in the group who have bright futures."

The Bulls have already started searching for a replacement for Jaques, who will leave with the organisation's blessing and best wishes, Queensland Cricket CEO Max Walters said.

"In the short-term it will be a blow losing him, as his passion, attention to detail and appetite for work were exceptional," Walters said.

Queensland assistant coaches Ashley Noffke, James Hopes, Andy Bichel and John Davison and state talent manager Justin Sternes will steer the Bulls' off-season program until a new full-time coach is appointed.

Jaques, 38, previously held a similar role with NSW and played 11 Tests for Australia with an average of 47.47 before retiring.

AAP