Gary Kirsten has stepped down as Pakistan’s limited-overs coach after just six months in the position, with Test coach Jason Gillespie set to lead the team for the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia starting next week.
Kirsten, the former South Africa batter, was appointed to a two-year contract in April, coinciding with Gillespie’s takeover of the Test side. Reports from ESPNCricinfo suggest that Kirsten’s departure stems from a strained relationship with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding selection matters.
In the lead-up to last week’s third Test between Pakistan and England, Gillespie revealed that he no longer had input on selection decisions, describing his role as a “match day strategist.” This shift came after the PCB restructured its selection committee following a significant defeat to England in the first Test.
Kirsten has an impressive coaching resume, having previously led India to a 50-over World Cup victory in 2011 and worked with his home country, South Africa, as well as various T20 franchises, including teams in the Indian Premier League.
Pakistan’s upcoming tour of Australia features three one-day internationals, beginning on November 4 in Melbourne, followed by three T20 internationals. Following Pakistan’s recent success, clinching a 2-1 Test series win against England, the PCB has entrusted Gillespie with the reins for these limited-overs matches.
