Though taken completely by surprise by the sudden resignation of Adrian Le Roux, the Board of Control for Cricket in India said it "respected" the decision of the South African trainer and will look for a "suitable replacement".

BCCI president Jagmohan Dalmiya said he received a letter from Le Roux on Monday asking to be relieved from his position as fitness trainer of the Indian team due to "personal reasons".

Dalmiya said the Board has no objection to it even though Le Roux had agreed for a one-year extension offered by BCCI after the World Cup.

"We have received a communication from Le Roux, resigning from the position of fitness trainer," Dalmiya said.

"Adrian did a wonderful job with the team and this was reflected in the results. The BCCI, however, respects his national sentiments and, therefore, a suitable replacement is being explored," he said.

In a surprise move, Le Roux, who had worked wonders with the Indian cricketers during his one-year stint with the team, yesterday took up the trainer's position with the South African national team on a two-year contract.

Dalmiya ruled out any action against Le Roux for breach of contract. He said the Board has already started the process of identifying possible contenders for the post and would announce the appointment soon.

"Working for his own country would obviously mean much more to Le Roux and the BCCI understands his sentiments. It will also give him an opportunity to stay with his family," Dalmiya said.

In his letter to the BCCI president, Le Roux said the offer from the United Cricket Board was something that he could not "overlook" and, after consultation with wife and family, decided to agree to it.

As trainer of the South African team, Le Roux would be responsible for ensuring that the players in the national squad as well as the 'A' side are in peak physical condition to meet the demands of international cricket.

"As a South African this will hand me the opportunity to represent my home country through my profession. It is an opportunity that I feel I cannot overlook and that it will mean a great deal to my family and me," Le Roux said in his letter.

"This decision came due to personal reasons. This decision was not an easy one as I have an excellent working relationship with BCCI and the Indian cricket team.

"I wish the Indian cricket team and its management all the best for the future and I hope that they will continue to be a winning team," he said.