South Africa want Gibson

ENGLAND could lose their highly regarded fast-bowling coach Ottis Gibson after Cricket South Africa approached the ECB about employing him as their new head coach. Gibson’s second stint with the England team has lasted over two years, having previously worked with them between 2007 and 2010 before becoming head coach of his native West Indies. But Sportsmail understands he has been keen on the South African job for some time, and their current coach Russell Domingo is out of contract at the end of this tour. If the move goes ahead, Gibson could take charge in time for Bangladesh’s tour of South Africa in late September, leaving England needing to appoint a new fast-bowling coach in time for the Ashes, which begin at The Gabba in Brisbane on November 23. Gibson is known to enjoy life in South Africa, having spent a total of six seasons playing domestic cricket with Border, Griqualand West and Gauteng. He is also keen for another crack at the highest level, having parted company with West Indies in 2014. The Barbados-born Gibson would become the first black coach of South Africa if appointed.