Gary Kirsten has stepped down as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach, sources confirmed on Monday.
The resignation follows ongoing conflicts between the South African coach and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), raising concerns ahead of the national team’s upcoming tour to Australia.
Kirsten’s departure poses a challenge for the Green Shirts, who are scheduled to face Australia in a three-match ODI series beginning on November 4, followed by an equally important T20I series.
Appointed alongside Australian Jason Gillespie as part of a two-year contract in April, Kirsten’s tenure was short-lived due to a breakdown in relations with the PCB.
Sources indicate that his resignation stemmed from a series of arbitrary decisions and non-compliance with his contractual obligations.
Notably, Kirsten refused to remain in Pakistan as required and insisted on joining the team only five or six days prior to tours or series.
Despite reminders of his commitment to be available for 11 months as per his contract, Gary Kirsten reportedly was absent during and after the Champions Cup.
Sources also highlighted that he threatened to skip the Australia tour unless the contract for mental performance coach David Reid was resolved.
In the wake of Kirsten’s exit, the PCB is reportedly poised to appoint former fast bowler and selection committee member Aqib Javed as the new head coach for the white-ball format. Consultations with Javed are nearing completion, and a decision is expected soon.
This swift move comes as the PCB had already begun exploring alternatives due to concerns over Kirsten’s conduct.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had directed the board to secure a new coach, with Gillespie initially considered for the interim position during the Australia series.
Additionally, the board is evaluating various mentoring options, including local coaching candidates, which could lead to Gillespie assuming broader responsibilities for the ODIs and T20Is against Australia.
