JOHANNESBURG, Sept 1: South Africa flew home from Sri Lanka on Wednesday, with coach Eric Simons saying he had no thoughts of stepping down. South Africa lost their first Test series to Sri Lanka 1-0 before being swept 5-0 in the one-day series.

The team was engulfed in speculation as to Simons' future after the coach was reported as saying in Sri Lanka that he would step down if performances did not improve in the ICC Champions Trophy.

"I am not about to resign, but I recognise that I am responsible and accountable for the team's results," Simons told reporters at Johannesburg Airport. "What I did say in Sri Lanka was that results had to improve because that's what the United Cricket Board demand.

"If not, then there will be changes to the playing squad and, or, the management." UCB chief executive Gerald Majola offered his support to Simons and captain Graeme Smith. "There are good tours and there are bad tours, and this one has been bad. But I'm sure you're as disappointed as we are," Majola told them.

"We are very disappointed, but we look forward to you bouncing back at the Champions Trophy and, Graeme and Eric, you have our full support." Simons said he believed the right squad had been chosen to tour Sri Lanka, but that they had not played to their potential.

"A lot of credit should go to a very good Sri Lankan side, but we never quite closed the door when we were in winning positions. I think that was due to a lack of confidence and poor early-season form." -Reuters