Pakistan’s cricket team has been under the microscope ever since their disappointing performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024. On the backdrop of this, the newly-appointed white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten has submitted a confidential report to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) outlining the possible reasons of the team’s debacle across the Atlantic.
What did Gary Kirsten say to PCB?
According to Geo News, Kirsten’s report highlights several areas that contributed to Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament. These include player fitness, discipline, and game awareness. Kirsten, who was India’s coach during their 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, expressed concerns about the players’ fitness levels, believing they fell short of the required standards.
He reportedly pointed out a lack of cricketing awareness, stating that “Despite playing so much cricket, no one knows which shot to play and when.”
PCB to review Gary Kirsten’s report
The PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, will review Kirsten’s report along with other board officials and former cricketers. This will be followed by discussions to determine the best course of action for the team moving forward. The team’s poor performance has led to widespread criticism, with fans and former cricketers calling for a significant revamp of the squad. PCB chief Naqvi himself acknowledged the need for “major surgery.”
While Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign may be over, they have already qualified for the next edition in 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. With Kirsten’s report offering valuable insights, the PCB has a roadmap for improvement.
