NEW DELHI: Gary Kirsten resigned as Pakistan’s limited-overs coach right before the Pakistan tour of Australia. His resignation follows the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) restructuring coaching roles and removing head coaches from the selection committee after Pakistan’s recent loss to England in the first Test.
Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria supported Kirsten’s decision. In an interview with The Times of India.com, Kaneria stated, “If you bring someone in and expect him to perform wonders early on, it’s not possible. That’s the only reason he didn’t like how things went after the World Cup – people were trolling him, the media was trolling him, everything.”
“So, a guy like Gary will not take that, and Gary has taken a good decision by not continuing with Pakistan. But it’s a big loss for the Pakistan team, especially for the youngsters, given the immense experience he brings.” he added.
The PCB has made a significant decision to alter its selection committee. Previously, head coaches and captains from both formats had voting rights on the committee. However, after Pakistan’s loss to England by an innings and 47 runs, the PCB decided to delegate all selection powers to a newly formed committee.
Kaneria also mentioned the possible involvement of the coach in the selection process after England’s series victory. Kaneria said, “I believe there might have been some concern that the coach wanted to be part of the selection committee, but they have to move forward since they’ve won the series, and some positivity has emerged. In time, the coach will likely become involved with the selection committee.”
Kaneria elaborated on the exclusion of international coaches from the selection committee, explaining that they lack familiarity with domestic players. He stated, “The international coaches are not involved in the selection committee because they need to stay in Pakistan to watch domestic cricket. I believe that’s the main reason.”
“When an international coach comes in, they don’t stay or watch domestic cricket. Therefore, there is no point in them being a part of us because they don’t know. So you have to rely on the selectors’ choices since they have been closely observing the players.” Kaneria concluded.
Kirsten was appointed in April on a two-year contract. During his short tenure, Pakistan made an early exit from the T20 World Cup, losing to the US and India in the group stage. Additionally, Pakistan lost their home Test series against Bangladesh.
Looking forward, Pakistan will play its first ODI since last year’s World Cup in India. The team is set to face Australia in Melbourne on November 4.