PCB enlists Gillespie and Kirsten as men’s head coaches

LAHORE: Pakistan’s cricketing fortunes may be in for a much needed revitalisation as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially appointed Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie as head coaches for the men’s cricket team, each assigned to different formats.

Pakistan beat NZ in fifth T20I to draw the series

Former South African batter and coach, Gary Kirsten, assumes the role of head coach for the limited overs formats, taking charge ahead of the highly anticipated ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. On the other hand, Jason Gillespie, the ex-Australian fast bowler, has been entrusted with leading the Test team.

The announcement, made at the PCB headquarters in Lahore, comes after a period of turbulence within the board. Following Pakistan’s fifth-place finish at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, which saw them miss out on the semi-finals, there were several changes in coaching staff, captains, and management.

Kirsten, renowned for steering India to its second World Cup triumph in 2011, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously coached South Africa’s men’s team and served in various capacities in club and franchise cricket.

Meanwhile, Gillespie, with an illustrious career spanning 71 Tests and 91 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), is poised to assume his role immediately, according to an announcement by the PCB on Sunday. While speaking to media, Gillespie said, “I’m really keen for Pakistan to play our way”.

West Indies edge past Pakistan by a whisker in first T20 showdown

The coaching shuffle follows the departure of Grant Bradburn as Pakistan’s head coach in January, closely followed by the exits of team director Mickey Arthur and batting coach Andrew Puttick.