Pakistan’s cricket team will have to search for a new coach for their limited-overs formats after Gary Kirsten decided not to extend his contract. The former South Africa batsman had been in charge of Pakistan’s ODI and T20 sides for the past two years, during which they achieved some notable successes.
However, Kirsten has now revealed that he feels it is time for him to return to his home in South Africa and spend more time with his family. The 54-year-old expressed that it had been difficult for him to spend long periods away from his loved ones due to his coaching commitments with the Pakistan team. While he enjoyed working with the Pakistani players and support staff, the travel requirements of the job had become too taxing.
Under Kirsten’s guidance, Pakistan won a T20 series in South Africa, had a whitewash victory over Zimbabwe in ODIs and climbed to number four in the T20 rankings. The team also performed creditably at various ICC events including the T20 World Cup. Kirsten is widely credited with helping several young cricketers from Pakistan make strides in their international careers during his tenure.
However, the ongoing political and security issues resulted in Pakistan being unable to host many international games at home. This meant their coaches and players had to spend extended stretches playing and practicing abroad, away from their families. Dealing with such challenges over an extended period took a toll on Kirsten as well.
With Kirsten stepping aside, the Pakistan Cricket Board will now be actively searching for a new white-ball head coach. They will hope to find someone who can continue the team’s development and help them achieve consistency across formats. Kirsten, meanwhile, will make his return to his native South Africa where he can spend more quality time with his loved ones.
