Following Pakistan’s poor performance in the T20 World Cup, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with head coaches Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie on Tuesday.
Sources indicate that Naqvi has given both coaches autonomy to revitalize the team. Pakistan’s campaign saw them defeated by the USA and India, leading to their early exit from the tournament hosted by the USA and the Caribbean.
During the meeting, which included white-ball and red-ball coaches, Kirsten and Gillespie outlined their strategies for the national team. The PCB confirmed that Naqvi fully trusted their capabilities and assured them of the board’s full support.
A PCB source reported that Kirsten openly expressed concerns about the white-ball team’s performance during the World Cup. The coaches emphasized the need to establish stringent fitness standards for team selection.
“Naqvi empowered them to make necessary changes to enhance the team’s prospects without compromising on player selection or fitness,” added the source.
Kirsten had previously urged veteran players to upgrade their skills and situational awareness in response to the losses in the USA and India. Moreover, team manager Wahab Riaz reported personality conflicts within the team during the World Cup.
“The PCB chief affirmed the coaches’ authority to make decisions to improve team performance in both formats,” the source noted. Assistant coach Azhar Mahmood was also present during this discussion.
Kirsten mentioned the need to redevelop player combinations and shift the team’s mindset in the white-ball format.
Kirsten and Gillespie, who had joined as coaches shortly before the World Cup, were assured by Naqvi of long-term contracts and the opportunity to implement their plans fully. Kirsten’s substantial experience, including his tenure with the Indian team, adds to his credibility in his role with Pakistan.
