WELLINGTON (AFP) - Former South African paceman Allan Donald rejected an offer to become New Zealand's bowling coach Sunday to pursue a job in his homeland, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said. Donald worked as the Black Caps' bowling coach for three months earlier this year and New Zealand administrators had hoped to sign him on permanently. NZC chief executive Justin Vaughan said Donald had reached a verbal agreement with the governing body but it fell through when the South African had a last-minute change of heart. "We did everything possible to retain Allan but it is understandable that a role in South Africa would be attractive to both him and his family," Vaughan said. "Unfortunately that is the nature of professional sport and although I understand the reasons for Allan's decision, it is disappointing." Vaughan said he believed Donald wanted to become S Africa's bowling coach.