Justin Langer has resigned as Australia coach after rejecting the opportunity to sign a short-term extension to his contract.

The 51-year-old has spearheaded a successful few months with the Baggy Greens, who have recently won the T20 World Cup and the Ashes.

However, amid earlier reported tensions behind the scenes and the revelation that he was no longer regarded as a long-term option, Langer has opted to step down from his role, turning down the chance to sign a six-month extension which would have taken him to the next T20 World Cup.

Commenting on Langer's decision, Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley said: "We are naturally disappointed Justin has decided against continuing as coach but respect his decision and wish him all the best in the future.

"Justin has been an outstanding coach of the Australian men's team over the past four years. He has restored the trust in the team and his legacy is assured.

"We felt the team and the role of head coach had evolved and it was time to transition over the course of a period, so we were very clear that we were looking at a short-term extension only for Justin."

Langer is now expected to be heavily linked with the vacant head coach position with England after Chris Silverwood was removed from the role earlier this week. body check tags ::