Jason Gillespie has withdrawn from the race to be named Justin Langer's replacement at the helm of the Australian cricket team.

The Adelaide Strikers and South Australian Redbacks coach was touted as one of the top prospects to take over the side, alongside assistant coach Andrew McDonald and former English boss Trevor Bayliss.

Gillespie, ahead of the Sheffield Shield resuming this week, told reporters that it's not something he is even entertaining while saying it was "heartbreaking" to see Langer ousted from the role.

“It's nice to be thought of in that way, but it's certainly something I am not even thinking about entertaining,” Gillespie said on Tuesday in Adelaide.

“Everyone has been pretty disappointed with how it has all played out – pretty heartbreaking to see, to be honest. But unfortunately, it is what it is.

“Justin has handled himself very well … the decision has been made and whatever decision they make, they make.

“Justin will go on and do wonderful things that we all know he can,” he said.

“He has done a fine job with Australian cricket the last four years and we all wish him really well because he will succeed in whatever he puts his mind to.”

Langer has left the team effective immediately. McDonald will interim coach the side in Pakistan, with a permanent coach set to be appointed before the June tour of Sri Lanka.