Former Proteas batter Gary Kirsten named as one of Pakistan's new head coaches

By SABC Sport
29th April 2024

Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie have been appointed as Pakistan's head coaches, with the latter in charge of the red ball side and Kirsten coaching the white ball teams.

Former Australia fast bowler Gillespie has signed a two-year deal and will be in charge for England's tour of Pakistan later this year.

Former Proteas batter and coach Kirsten will take charge of Pakistan's white-ball sides ahead of June's T20 World Cup while ex-Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has been named assistant across all formats.

Kirsten, who coached India to World Cup glory in 2011, said: "It's a tremendous honour to be entrusted with the responsibility of coaching the Pakistan men's national team in white-ball cricket and to rejoin the international cricket arena after some time.

"I eagerly anticipate this opportunity and aim to contribute positively to the Pakistan men's national team in limited-overs cricket."

Gillespie added: "Leading the Pakistan cricket team is a big achievement for any coach, given its rich legacy and passionate fan base.

"I love Test cricket and being able to focus on that is something I like very much. I also love the fact that there is so much talent in Pakistan.

"I understand there will be expectation and that comes with the role. All I can do is to take it in my stride and I would not have taken on the job if I did not think I could deal with it."