In the aftermath of Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has given head coaches Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie full authority to overhaul the team. Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament, held in the USA and the Caribbean, came after losses to newcomers USA and arch-rivals India.
Full Support from PCB Chairman
Naqvi met with Kirsten and Gillespie to discuss their plans for revitalising the national team. According to PCB sources, Naqvi expressed his complete confidence in the coaches and assured them of the board’s unwavering support. “Naqvi told them they should do whatever is necessary to change the fortunes of the team and no one would ask them to make any compromises on selection or the fitness of players,” a PCB source revealed.
Gary Kirsten, known for his successful stint with the Indian cricket team, did not hold back in expressing his concerns about Pakistan’s white-ball team performance. He emphasised the need for players to adopt new skill sets and improve their game awareness. Kirsten warned senior players to adapt or risk being left behind.
“Kirsten was blunt in laying down his concerns about the white-ball team based on the World Cup,” the source said. Kirsten and Gillespie, who recently took on their coaching roles, have been tasked with setting clear fitness guidelines and rebuilding team combinations, particularly in the white-ball format. Kirsten highlighted the necessity to change the mindset of players to foster a more competitive and cohesive team environment.
Addressing Team Dynamics
The meeting also included discussions on team dynamics and internal conflicts. Senior team manager Wahab Riaz reported personality clashes during the World Cup, which Naqvi and the coaches acknowledged needed to be addressed. Assistant coach Azhar Mahmood was also present, contributing to the strategic planning.
“The PCB chief said both the coaches had a free hand to take whatever decisions they wanted to improve the performances of the team in red-ball and white-ball formats,” the source added. This directive aims to provide Kirsten and Gillespie with the autonomy to implement their vision without interference.
Long-Term Vision for Pakistan Cricket
Kirsten and Gillespie, who were approached by Naqvi a few months before the World Cup and offered long-term contracts, are now focused on turning around Pakistan’s cricketing fortunes. Their combined expertise and fresh perspective are expected to bring about significant changes in the team’s approach and performance.
With Kirsten’s reputation and previous successes, and Gillespie’s experience, the PCB is hopeful for a brighter future for Pakistan cricket. The coaches’ commitment to setting high fitness standards and fostering a winning mindset is anticipated to instil discipline and resilience within the team.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
