Kevin Pietersen Criticizes Pakistan Cricket for Letting Gary Kirsten Go
Kirsten, who guided India to victory in the 2011 Cricket World Cup, was seen as a high-caliber addition to Pakistan's coaching staff. Despite a successful Test series win against England, his exit has reportedly been tied to internal disagreements.
Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has voiced his frustration over Pakistan's decision to part ways with Gary Kirsten as head coach of the white-ball team. Kirsten’s seven-month stint with Pakistan began in April 2024, leading up to the T20 World Cup, but ended following Pakistan’s early exit after losses to India and tournament newcomers USA. Pietersen criticized the move on social media, calling it a "one step forward, two steps back" approach and urged Pakistan Cricket to stop sabotaging its own progress given the team’s abundant talent.
Kirsten, who guided India to victory in the 2011 Cricket World Cup, was seen as a high-caliber addition to Pakistan's coaching staff. Despite a successful Test series win against England, his exit has reportedly been tied to internal disagreements. Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali stated that a key point of contention was the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to make Mohammad Rizwan the white-ball captain, replacing Babar Azam—a move Kirsten allegedly disagreed with, as he had a different candidate in mind.
In the wake of Kirsten’s exit, the PCB has appointed Test head coach Jason Gillespie as interim white-ball coach for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia. Additionally, Aaqib Javed and legendary bowler Saqlain Mushtaq are rumored to be potential candidates for a permanent coaching role.
