Ryan Cook is stepping down as head coach of the Netherlands men's team with immediate effect, the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) has confirmed. The update came after Cook and his partner Emma gave birth to their second child. Heino Kuhn, the former South Africa international who served as batting coach under Cook, will be the interim coach and helm the team for their upcoming Cricket World Cup League 2 matches.
"Coaching the Dutch men's team has without a shadow of a doubt been one of the highlights of my coaching career so far," Cook said in a KNCB statement. "It's been an absolute pleasure to lead the journey towards professionalism and creating a competitive cricket team with strong values.
"I thank all at the KNCB and the Dutch cricket community for all their continued support throughout the years. The KNCB and the team deserve someone who can give the job the full, sustained focus and presence it now requires. I know that the foundations are strong and the future is bright."
Cook, a former South African player, took charge of the Netherlands men's team in May 2022.
"Ryan Cook has had an enormous impact on the entire system of Dutch cricket, building the depth of players, a strong team culture, coaching development and contributions to grassroots cricket," KNCB chief executive Huib van Walsem said. "We are grateful for his wonderful efforts that have brought great results."
Under Cook, Netherlands qualified for the 2022 T20 World Cup, which was played in Australia, where they beat Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Netherlands also qualified for the 2023 ODI World Cup in 2023 in India, the first time they had made the cut for the tournament since 2011. They weren't just making up the numbers, as their wins over South Africa and Bangladesh proved even though they finished last.
"Ryan has been instrumental in the growth of this team and Dutch cricket as a whole over the past four years," Netherlands captain Scott Edwards said. "His passion, professionalism and commitment to creating a strong culture have helped us achieve some memorable performances and set this team up for future success. On behalf of the players, I want to thank Ryan for everything he has done for us and wish him and his family all the very best for the future."
Netherlands are currently in third place, behind USA and Scotland, on the CWC League 2 table, with 32 points from 28 matches.