In a shocking turn of events, Gary Kirsten has resigned as head coach of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I teams, just six months into a two-year contract. His departure, announced on the eve of Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball tour of Australia, has sparked concern over the future of the Pakistan team and its ability to attract high-profile international coaching talent.
Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja expressed his disappointment, suggesting that Kirsten’s abrupt exit could deter other prominent candidates from pursuing coaching roles with the team. “It’s not going to be an easy, straightforward job for Pakistan to hire international talent,” Ramiz stated during a media interaction. He emphasized the need for clarity in coaching roles, indicating uncertainty over whether Kirsten was given adequate direction regarding his responsibilities.
Kirsten, who previously led India to a World Cup victory in 2011, leaves without having coached Pakistan in a single ODI. His resignation follows a series of tumultuous events within the PCB, including a rift with newly appointed Test coach Jason Gillespie and a controversial restructuring of the selection committee, which recently included umpire Aleem Dar.
“I don’t know about an umpire being a selector, so the jury is still out,” Ramiz remarked, highlighting concerns over the board’s decision-making processes. The frequent changes—this being the third selection panel in just three months—have further complicated an already precarious situation for the team.
Gillespie, who is set to take over coaching duties during the Australia tour, has also voiced dissatisfaction with recent changes within the PCB. Meanwhile, Mohammad Rizwan steps up as captain for the Australia tour following Babar Azam’s resignation, leading a relatively inexperienced squad through a challenging series.
“This is Rizwan’s chance to stamp his authority and get the players he wants,” Ramiz noted. However, he raised concerns about the current selection process, suggesting it lacks the coherence typically seen in other cricketing nations.
As Pakistan prepares for a critical series against Australia, Ramiz called for a more stable environment within the cricketing framework. “It’s important for all stakeholders to understand the value of a non-controversial start to what appears to be an extremely heavyweight calendar,” he said.
With tensions simmering and changes aplenty, Pakistan cricket faces a challenging road ahead, and the implications of Kirsten’s departure may linger for some time as they navigate this tumultuous terrain.
