Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has stepped away from the race to become Pakistan cricket team head coach, choosing to honor his current coaching and commentary roles.
Shane Watson, a popular figure in Pakistan after coaching Quetta Gladiators in the recent PSL season, was reportedly in advanced talks with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the limited-overs head coach position.
Family Ties and busy schedule ft IPL
While Shane Watson enjoyed his time in Pakistan and considered the offer seriously, his decision ultimately came down to existing commitments. He currently balances commentary for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024), a head coaching role with the San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket, and his family based in Sydney.
Taking the Pakistan cricket team job would have meant immediate relocation and a full-time commitment to their year-round limited-overs program, clashing with his existing schedule as per ESPNcricinfo.
PCB Must Resume Coach Search
With Watson out of the picture, the PCB’s search for a head coach continues. The position is crucial as Pakistan gears up for a home series against New Zealand in April, followed by matches against England and the T20 World Cup later this year.
Reports suggested the PCB offered Watson a significant salary, though sources close to him claim finances weren’t a deciding factor. Instead, the tight timeframe and need to abruptly exit his current roles proved to be the biggest hurdle.
Shane Watson impact on Quetta Gladiators
Despite not becoming Pakistan’s coach, Watson’s influence on Quetta Gladiators is undeniable. Having won the PSL championship with them as a player in 2019, he returned as coach and shook things up, replacing long-time captain Sarfaraz Ahmed with South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw.
The Gladiators initially thrived under Shane Watson leadership, securing a playoff spot for the first time in five seasons. However, their momentum faltered towards the end, with the team ultimately eliminated by Islamabad United.
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