Thu Oct 31 06:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Gary Kirsten Steps Down as Pakistan’s White-Ball Coach Amidst Internal Tensions
**LAHORE, PAKISTAN -** In a surprising development, Gary Kirsten, the recently appointed white-ball coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, is set to step down after just five months in the role. Sources close to the team indicate that significant disagreements between Kirsten and the players, as well as a clash with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led to his decision.
Kirsten, who previously led India to victory in the 2011 ODI World Cup, joined the Pakistan team in April. His tenure has seen a series of tumultuous changes, including the reinstatement and subsequent resignation of Babar Azam as captain, as well as multiple changes to the selection committee.
According to reports, tensions escalated in recent weeks over disagreements between Kirsten and the players. Furthermore, Kirsten’s request to appoint David Reid as a High-Performance coach was denied by the PCB, who instead offered alternative names.
While the PCB is yet to officially confirm Kirsten’s departure, the news has fueled speculation about his successor. Current red-ball coach Jason Gillespie is considered a strong contender for the position, while former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed is another potential candidate. Aaqib is currently part of the national selection committee and has been credited for playing a key role in Pakistan’s recent success against England.
The PCB has already announced squads for upcoming white-ball tours of Australia and Zimbabwe, and Kirsten’s absence from these assignments further strengthens the likelihood of his departure. The board is expected to make an official announcement regarding Kirsten’s successor in the coming days.
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