Gary Kirsten has stepped down as Pakistan’s head coach for the ODI and T20I teams, just six months into his two-year contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Appointed in April 2024, Kirsten’s resignation comes a week before Pakistan’s ODI series in Australia. His departure follows tension between the newly-appointed coaches—Kirsten and Jason Gillespie—and the PCB, mainly over the board’s decision to remove selection authority from the coaches, placing it solely in the hands of a new selection committee. Gillespie voiced his discontent, referring to his role as “just a match-day analyst.”
Kirsten reportedly grew dissatisfied with his sidelined role and limited influence in squad decisions. ESPNcricinfo highlighted his disappointment over the PCB overlooking his input on team selection. The announcement of Mohammad Rizwan as the new white-ball captain took place without Kirsten’s presence, with only board chairman Mohsin Naqvi, selection committee member Aaqib Javed, and the new captain and vice-captain present at the press conference.
The latest selection panel, the third in three months, comprises Aaqib Javed, Aleem Dar, Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq, and Hassan Cheema, further marginalizing the coaching staff. Pakistan’s selection dynamics have shifted significantly under this panel, with Aaqib emerging as a key figure. This shift featured unconventional approaches, with the team preparing specific surfaces to secure wins.
Kirsten’s short-lived tenure included an early exit from the T20 World Cup in the USA, where losses to USA and India led to Pakistan’s swift elimination. With Kirsten’s resignation, the PCB is considering interim options for the upcoming tours of Australia and Zimbabwe. Gillespie may be asked to step in temporarily, though Aaqib Javed is reportedly interested in a longer-term role.
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