Coach Carlos Spencer has parted ways with the EP Kings ahead of the Currie Cup

Spencer, who earned 35 caps for the All Blacks from 1995 to 2004, finished his playing career with the Lions in 2011 and then coached at the Lions and the Sharks (as a consultant), before linking up with the EP Kings in December 2013.

He was appointed as the attack and specialist skills coach, and then took charge of the provincial team on their return to the Currie Cup Premier Division in 2014.

In 2015 he resumed his duties as the attack and specialist skills coach following the appointment of Brent Janse van Rensburg as the Kings head coach.

EP Rugby president Cheeky Watson paid tribute to Spencer for his contribution to the team.

'We would like to thank Carlos for what he brought to the Kings during his time with us. With his specialist attacking skills he was able to provide a new perspective for the players on the game and we will miss his input, but we wish him well for the future.

'In the interim, the coaching staff will be restructured accordingly and we have full confidence in their ability to manage the workload and to run a successful campaign. We are still in the process of finalising certain appointments within the coaching structure leading into Super Rugby.'

Photo: Michael Sheehan/Gallo Images