West Indies pace legend Curtly Ambrose has revealed that the decision to depose him from the role of bowling consultant came as 'a bit of a shock'.
Former West Indies A player, Roderick Estwick, replaced Ambrose on Saturday to coach the national team for next month's one-day international triangular series against Australia and South Africa.
Explaining the rationale behind his removal, Ambrose said head coach Phil Simmons wanted someone who is 'more technical' to coach the team's pace bowlers.
"I only learnt about it from head coach Phil Simmons on Wednesday [last week], and when he told me I said to him that I am very disappointed, because I never expected it, and I never saw it coming because he never gave me any indication he was going to let me go," Ambrose was quoted as saying by the ESPNcricinfo.
"I spoke to head coach Phil Simmons, and he told me that he wanted someone who is more technical to work with the fast bowlers," the pace legend said. "So, I said to him well, if you knew I was doing a poor job, then you should have told me. He said no, I did a fantastic job, because I brought a high level of discipline to the team, and I have motivated the guys quite a bit... but he wants somebody more technical, hence, he is going for Roderick Estwick."
Ambrose has been working as West Indies bowling consultant for the past three years. He was also a part of the coaching staff during their triumphant World T20 campaign in India.
However, the West Indies Cricket Board had not mentioned the reason for Ambrose's departure in their statement.
The West Indies will kick start the tri-series against South Africa in Guyana on June 3.