Turbulence In Pakistan Cricket; Gary Kirsten Steps Down From Coaching Role

Gary Kirsten steps down as the Pakistan white-ball captain [Source: @dhillow_/x.com]

Gary Kirsten's stint as Pakistan's coach in limited overs is reportedly nearing its end. However, this rumour awaits an official announcement. As per the latest developments Kirsten has stepped down from his post. This would accentuate the turbulent times the Pakistan team is going through.

Notably, Pakistan announced its squads for the upcoming tours to Australia and Zimbabwe, and Gary Kirsten was noticeably missing from the touring parties. As reported by Cricktracker, sources have revealed that there has been a difference of opinion between the players and Kirsten. Adding to the fire was PCB's decline of Kirsten's request to bring in David Reid as a high-performance coach. 

Kirsten's short and disappointing tenure with Pakistan

Kirsten has stepped down from the role as per the latest news.

Notably, Kirsten's tenure with Pakistan has lasted just four months. He began his job after his assignment with Gujarat Titans in IPL. He joined the squad during the England tour, where Pakistan suffered a series of defeats. The failures continued as the team faced a shock defeat against the USA in the T20 World Cup 2024 and then lost to India to be eliminated from the tournament in the first round.

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Mohammad Rizwan has taken over as the white-ball captain of the team

While the confusion continues regarding the coaching position, wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan has taken over the role of Pakistan's white-ball captain. The new captain's first challenge will be preparing the team for the upcoming Champions Trophy. The tours to Zimbabwe and Australia will give Rizwan a better idea about his team and how to work with it. With Gary Kirsten's probable departure, a lot will depend on how Rizwan leads the team.

Pakistan reportedly hunting for a new white-ball coach

Reports also suggest that PCB is already searching for Gary Kirsten's successor. Jason Gillespie, Pakistan's current red-ball coach, is a leading candidate for the job. The board could ask Gillespie to step in on an interim basis for the limited-overs matches.  

Another name doing the rounds is that of former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed. He has played a crucial role as a national selector in Pakistan's recent success. Pakistan recently defeated England in a three-match Test series at home, and a lot of credit for it is being given to Javed.

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