Eastern Province Rugby has confirmed the departure of head-coach, Brent Janse Van Rensburg.
Speculation about his future at the cash-strapped Province mounted this week.
His departure also comes amid players venting their anger at not being paid on social media.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, EP Rugby gave no reasons for his sudden departure just months ahead of the Super Rugby season, but EP rugby boss, Cheeky Watson, wished him well for the future.
Watson also thanked the contracted players for their commitment to the Southern Kings' cause .. adding that with Saru's intervention .. a strong management team will be put in place in preparation for Super Rugby 2016.
Van Rensburg said he was not able to confirm reports linking him to a new coaching role at Boland.
He issued the following statement:
"This was certainly a very difficult decision to make on many fronts. Although we are saddened to leave, after much deliberation, we felt it was the best decision for us at this moment in time.
I am incredibly thankful to the Kings for seeing potential in me, providing me with the opportunity to contribute to this amazing region and supporting me through the process.
I am also very appreciative for the efforts made by our management team and the players for their incredible spirit and work ethic.
The supporters from the eastern cape community has also been incredibly kind to me. Thank you.
I sincerely hope that things come together quickly for the Kings and only wish all parties involved everything of the best for the future. There is a lot of good here, and we must not lose sight of that.
Hopefully I can return one day."
