Jaques steps down as Queensland coach

Queensland coach Phil Jaques has resigned from his post for personal reasons, opting to return to Sydney with his young family, where he will take up a position as NSW batting coach. 

Jaques, who has been in charge of the Bulls for the past two seasons, enjoyed a productive stint as mentor, overseeing a young squad and most notably playing a key role in the Test selection of batsmen Matthew Renshaw, Joe Burns and Usman Khawaja.  

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The former Test batsman will return to the Blues - where he worked previously as assistant and batting coach - under current head coach Trent Johnston.

"Stepping down was a very challenging decision to make, and not one that I made lightly, but I know it was the right one for my family and me," said Jaques, originally from the Illawarra region and a NSW player throughout his first-class career. 

"I have enjoyed the chance to coach at a high level with Queensland and stand aside with the knowledge that there are a number of very special players in the group who have bright futures. 

"I congratulate the players, coaches and support staff for working hard and buying into what we looked to achieve with the group and wish them all the best as they tackle the coming season.

"Queensland Cricket made us very welcome when we moved here and I thank them for their understanding in this instance, but also the professional and caring manner which they have displayed during my time with the Bulls.

"I’m also grateful to Cricket NSW for giving me the chance to tackle a head coaching role originally, and for working with Queensland Cricket to assist me with a coaching role when we return to Sydney."

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Queensland Cricket CEO Max Walters said a replacement for Jaques was already being considered, while in the meantime the squad's off-season program will begin next month under the guidance of experienced assistant coaches Ashley Noffke, James Hopes, Andy Bichel and John Davison and State Talent Manager Justin Sternes.

"Phil has stood down for reasons that resonate for many, and he goes with our blessing and best wishes," Walters said.

"He and his wife Jessica have a young family and, after making a successful transition from player to Head Coach, he has made the decision to put his family first and return to Sydney to be closer to their extended family support network.

"Once Phil explained his decision, we contacted Cricket NSW and have worked with them to secure a coaching role for him in Sydney with NSW.

"In the short-term it will be a blow losing him, as his passion, attention to detail and appetite for work were exceptional whilst he was in the Bulls role. He focused on developing Queensland’s young talent and that investment in a new generation of players will stand Queensland and Australian cricket in very good stead in the years ahead."

Queensland's most notable team success during Jaques' tenure came when they finished first at the end of the regular round of the 2016 Matador One-Day Cup, only to be beaten by New South Wales in the final.

The 38-year-old was also seen as playing a pivotal role in the development of a host of young Bulls talent, namely Mitch Swepson, Chris Lynn, Sam Heazlett, Cameron Boyce, Michael Neser, Billy Stanlake and Jack Wildermuth – all of whom have either gone on to earn Australia A call-ups or ODI honours.  

"I'm delighted that Phil Jaques is returning to Cricket NSW," said Cricket NSW CEO Andrew Jones.

"He developed the nickname 'Pro' during an impressive playing career because of his meticulous approach and has taken that into his coaching career.

"Phil left NSW to be head coach of Queensland two years ago having done an outstanding job as Blues assistant and batting coach and we are very lucky to have him back.

"Phil and (wife) Jessica have young children and were very keen to get back closer to family in NSW. 'Pro' is and remains a very proud Bluebagger.

"So it will be great to have him back home."