With Buchanan out, names of former Sri Lankan and Bangladesh coach Dav Whatmore was doing round for the vacant coach's job even though the NCA chief maintained that he was "employed with BCCI". Former Australian captain Steve Waugh and Michael Bevan's names are also said to be in contention.

The KKR management, meanwhile, announced that they would take a fresh approach to the 2010 season. "While the 2009 IPL season was an exciting and successful event, the Kolkata Knight Riders regretfully did not achieve what was required of them during the tournament, failing to fulfill both their own and their fans expectations," the franchisee said. "The Knight Riders management and owners have reviewed the strengths and weaknesses of the team with all parties involved and are pro-actively looking for a new approach to ensure Knight Riders are well prepared for the 2010 season of IPL and beyond," it added.

The KKR top brass had on Wednesday refused to confirm the development even as a team insider revealed that the team management had conveyed the decision to Buchanan and was looking for his replacement. Buchanan had a controversial stint with KKR in the second edition when he floated the "multiple captaincy" idea in his effort to oust Sourav Ganguly as the captain of the side.

As it turned out, Ganguly was eventually replaced by New Zealand wicketkeeper batsman Brendon McCullum as the team finished last in the IPL2. Buchanan boasted of a huge support staff that included his son Michael that also created a flutter. The team had an abysmal performance during the second IPL season in South Africa, winning just three of their 14 league games.