The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie as head coaches for the men’s national team. The decision comes because of Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and changes in coaching staff and team leadership.
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Pakistan cricket has faced challenges following its fifth-place finish in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, failing to advance to the semifinals.
This series of changes in coaching staff, including the departures of head coach Grant Bradburn, team director Mickey Arthur, and batting coach Andrew Puttick.
Gary Kirsten, the former South Africa batter and coach has been appointed as the head coach for limited overs cricket, while Jason Gillespie, the former Australian fast bowler, will take charge of the Test team.
The appointments were announced at the PCB headquarters in Lahore after a period of evaluation and recruitment.
Kirsten known for leading India to World Cup victory in 2011 and coaching South Africa will immediately assume responsibility for the limited overs side.
He brings a wealth of experience from his successful coaching stints and to unite the team towards achieving success in upcoming tournaments, including the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and T20 World Cup 2026.
Gillespie known as “Dizzy,” brings his experience as both a player and coach to the Test team. His focus will be on preparing the team for upcoming ICC World Test Championship fixtures and series against Bangladesh, England, and South Africa.
Azhar Mahmood, the former Pakistan all-rounder will continue his role as the cross-format assistant coach providing support to both Kirsten and Gillespie.
Mahmood’s retention ensures stability within the coaching setup, facilitating a smooth transition under the new leadership.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed confidence in the appointments shows Kirsten and Gillespie’s stellar track records and the value they bring to Pakistani cricket.
The appointments comes of Pakistan’s fifth-place finish in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, where they failed to qualify for the semifinals.
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The PCB plans to bring stability and leadership to the team after a series of changes in coaching staff and management.
Kirsten brings a wealth of coaching experience, having also coached South Africa’s men’s team. He will immediately take charge of the limited overs side, including the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Gillespie will lead the Test team. He aims to instill a sense of authenticity and entertainment in the team’s gameplay.
Azhar Mahmood, former Pakistan all-rounder will be retained as cross-format assistant coach providing continuity and support to both Kirsten and Gillespie.
Kirsten will oversee Pakistan’s campaigns in various tournaments, including the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Gillespie will lead the team in upcoming ICC World Test Championship fixtures and Test series.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi addressed the importance of appointing high-profile coaches like Kirsten and Gillespie to guide Pakistan’s talented players to new heights.
Gillespie expressed gratitude for the opportunity to coach Pakistan’s Test team and the talent pool available, especially in fast bowling. Kirsten addressed his goal of uniting the white-ball team and helping players reach their full potential.
Naqvi explained the decision to hire foreign coaches citing the need for expertise and experience to address fitness and performance issues within the team. He stressed the importance of seeking the best options globally to achieve optimal results.
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