Gary Kirsten’s Pakistan Coaching Tenure on the Brink of Collapse
Gary Kirsten’s tenure as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach is reportedly nearing an end, just a day after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced Mohammad Rizwan as the new full-time white-ball captain.
According to Cricbuzz, significant differences have emerged between Kirsten and the players, as well as disagreements with the PCB over coaching staff decisions. Kirsten had reportedly requested the appointment of David Reid as High Performance coach, a suggestion that did not align with the PCB’s preferences. The board allegedly proposed alternatives, which Kirsten found unacceptable.
Kirsten’s departure is a blow to Pakistan cricket, as he was seen as a key figure in the team’s rebuilding process. However, his tenure has been marred by a lack of success on the field. Pakistan lost a bilateral series in England and suffered a disappointing early exit in the T20 World Cup, with losses to the United States and India derailing their campaign.
With the ICC Champions Trophy less than four months away and Pakistan set to host an international tournament for the first time in over two decades, the PCB faces the urgent task of appointing a new white-ball coach. Speculation suggests that Jason Gillespie, Pakistan’s red-ball coach, could temporarily take over both formats. However, Aaqib Javed, a former fast bowler and current national selector, is seen as the frontrunner for the position. Javed is credited with the team’s recent success in the home Test series against England, which Pakistan won 2-1.
An official announcement is expected soon as the PCB navigates this challenging coaching situation ahead of a critical period for Pakistan cricket.