Gary Kirsten Steps Down as Pakistan's White-Ball Coach

Gary Kirsten has resigned as Pakistan’s white-ball coach just six months into his two-year contract, leaving Test coach Jason Gillespie to lead the team in the upcoming white-ball series against Australia. Kirsten, a former South African cricketer and renowned coach, reportedly had a strained relationship with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), particularly concerning selection matters, according to sources like ESPN Cricinfo.

Kirsten’s resignation comes amid changes in Pakistan’s cricket setup. Appointed alongside Gillespie in April, Kirsten was brought on board with the hope that his experience could boost Pakistan's limited-overs performance. However, his reported clashes with the PCB have overshadowed his tenure, especially as the PCB restructured their selection committee following Pakistan's heavy loss to England in the first Test of their recent series.

In light of these developments, Gillespie, who has openly expressed his limited influence over team selection, will serve as the interim white-ball coach for the upcoming series. This role will primarily focus on match-day strategy, aligning with Gillespie’s previously described responsibilities. Pakistan’s white-ball tour of Australia will include three ODIs starting on November 4 in Melbourne, followed by three T20 internationals.

Kirsten’s departure marks a setback for the PCB, given his prior successes coaching India to a World Cup victory in 2011 and leading South Africa. The PCB will now be looking to stabilize its coaching staff and selection strategies as they prepare for a challenging series in Australia.