“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, also 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, 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 the wins over South Africa and Bangladesh proved even though they finished last.

Netherlands are currently in third place, behind USA and Scotland, on the CWC League 2 table after 114 matches.