Cape Town - Makhaya Ntini was reportedly told to step down as Zimbabwe's bowling coach despite the national board announcing they had accepted his resignation.

On Sunday, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) confirmed that the former Proteas bowler stepped down from his role as national bowling coach and that his resignation had been accepted reluctantly.

"And while reluctantly accepting his resignation, ZC fully appreciates and respects the reasons behind Makhaya's decision, and wishes him all the very best for the future," read the press release.

However, speaking to SABC's Radio 2000 in an interview, Ntini claimed that he was asked to step down.

"The honest truth is that I didn't resign," said Ntini.

"... Some of the players and the staff members went to see him and reported that they are not happy with the job I am doing and that the job that I was given was not meant for me.

"I don't regret anything about me going to Zimbabwe. When I took a decision of going to Zimbabwe, I knew what was needed," he said.

According to Cricinfo, there had been problems with Ntini's coaching style, as he was strict on player fitness and often demanded excessive training.

Ntini, who took 390 wickets in 101 Tests for the Proteas, has been with Zimbabwe coaching staff since February 2016.

Zimbabwe will depart for Bangladesh on Tuesday, where they take on the hosts as well as Sri Lanka in a ODI triangular series.

Heath Streak's charges will play Bangladesh in their first match on January 15, before facing Sri Lanka two days later.