David Hemp has opted against extending his contract as head coach of the Pakistan women’s cricket team when his deal runs out in October.

The former Bermuda left-handed batsman, who took the reins from Iqbal Imam in 2020, oversaw Pakistan's progress in the Women's World Cup Qualifier last year, the Women's World Cup this year and the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham last month.

However, despite enjoying his tenure, the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed this week that Hemp, the team’s second overseas coach, will not be extending his original two-year contract, with the 51-year-old citing family reasons behind his decision.

“I have enjoyed living in Pakistan and working with the women cricketers, but it has also been difficult on me and my young family as I have been unable to spend enough time with them like any other father,” Hemp said in a statement issued by PCB.

“After consulting my family, I have conveyed this difficult decision to the Pakistan Cricket Board, which has very graciously understood my situation and accepted my decision.

“It has been incredibly enjoyable and satisfying working with the girls. Although results in international arena may not truly reflect the hard work and effort that went into the planning and preparations, I am satisfied that I gave my very best and the girls equally responded.”

Despite Pakistan failing to progress out of the eight-team group stage at the World Cup, finishing bottom with two points, Hemp did oversee their first victory in 19 matches in the competition, as they overcame West Indies by eight wickets.

Hemp also highlighted the emergence of Fatima Sana, with her progress one of the shining positives of his time in charge.

“I was especially pleased with the emergence of Fatima Sana, who won the ICC Emerging Cricketer of the Year 2021 award and became the first Pakistan woman cricketer to win the ICC Cricketer of the Month award and displayed her excellent talent in the recently concluded Commonwealth Games,” he added.

“I am optimistic we will see many more young women cricketers from domestic competitions and talent hunt programmes to enter the Pakistan framework and contribute in the team’s future achievements.

“I want to thank everyone at the Pakistan Cricket Board, women’s wing and the entire side who not only backed and supported me but also made my stay memorable and comfortable.

“I will remain a big fan of Pakistan women’s cricket, will continue to follow their progress with excitement and remain confident that better results and successes await them down the road.”

The team will now be looking for a replacement to be in place ahead of the visit of Ireland for a one-day international series in November, which will be part of the ICC Women’s Championship.

“It is sad to lose someone of David’s calibre, enthusiasm and strong work ethics, but at the same we also understand and accept that family has to come first,” Tania Mallick, the PCB head of women’'s wing, said.

“The PCB thanks David for all his efforts and contributions, and wishes him best of luck in his future endeavours.”