Test captain Joe Root has praised former Proteas coach Gary Kirsten despite not being involved in England’s recruitment of a successor for the outgoing Trevor Bayliss.

Bayliss’ tenure as head coach ended with a 2-2 Ashes series draw earlier this year – and England require a successor for tours of New Zealand and South Africa later this year.

‘I don’t really know what the stance is or what’s been going on, it’s nothing to do with me and I’ve tried to stay as far away from it as I can,’ said Root.

‘In terms of Gary, he’s obviously had a fantastic time of it in international cricket, he’s done some wonderful things with India and South Africa – domestically done some good stuff recently in Twenty20 cricket. He’s obviously a very accomplished, all-round coach.’

The 51-year-old Kirsten won the 2011 World Cup with India and has worked with the Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League and Hobart Hurricanes in Australia’s Big Bash League.

He will coach the Western Fire in the England and Wales Cricket Board’s The Hundred next year. He has also agreed to coach the Durban Heat in South Africa’s Mzansi Super League this year.

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