The Pakistan Cricket Board (printed circuit board) faces challenges in appointing a coach for the men’s national cricket team. PCB president Mohsin Naqvi intends to implement a hybrid model for coaches, which involves appointing a foreign coach and Pakistani assistants.
The new president still prefers a foreign coach for the Pakistan team, despite the team’s disappointing performance under Mickey Arthur and Grant Bradburn in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Arthur notably led the team to victory in the 2017 Champions Trophy.
Former cricketers like Waqar Younis and Misbah-ul-Haq, along with Mohammad Hafeez, have not been successful in their roles with the national team. Mohammad Hafeez recently resigned from his position as Director of Cricket after a failed tenure.
The PCB has approached former all-rounder Shane Watson, who coached the Quetta Gladiators in the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL), with an annual salary of $2 million. However, Naqvi said the deal could not be finalized due to details emerging in the media.
Pakistan Cricket Board reaches out to former cricketers as head coach
According to cricketpakistan.com.pk, the cricket board approached former England coach Andy Flower but he rejected the offer. Similarly, Mike Hesson, coach of Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League, also declined to take over.
Furthermore, Darren Sammy’s contract with the West Indian Board made him unavailable, while former Australian cricketer Simon Katich rejected the offer. Although discussions have been initiated with Justin Langer, no affirmative response has been received to date.
Cricket authorities seem reluctant to appoint former Pakistani stars to important positions within the team. Azhar Mahmood and Saqlain Mushtaq have confirmed that they have not been contacted regarding possible appointments with the men’s team.
The board has approached Matthew Hayden, a former associate of the team, for possible involvement. Many coaches are reportedly unavailable due to commitments in the Indian Premier League, but PCB remains optimistic about progressing next week.
Currently, the Pakistan team has no head coach or support staff. Their upcoming schedule includes a five-match T20I series against New Zealand at home, starting on April 18 in Rawalpindi, followed by a four-match T20I series in England.
PCB has not hired any professional coach – Aaqib Javed
Former Pakistan cricketer Aaqib Javed has criticized the lack of professionalism in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) coach selection process. He highlighted the discrepancy between standard hiring practices and the PCB’s approach.
“It’s not about jealousy, it’s about mentality. If you look at the last 10-12 years, apart from Mickey Arthur, PCB has not hired any professional coach. “Around the world, when there is a coaching offer, the first requirement is usually a level 3 plus qualification, followed by 4 or 5 years of international experience.” Aaqib said.
“PCB hires a person first and then the advertisement comes according to that person. “So when you don’t correct your ad, anyone can apply, so what are the criteria?” he questioned.
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