Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi on Sunday appointed former South African cricketer Gary Kirsten as the white-ball coach for the Pakistan national cricket team.
Addressing the press conference flanked by PCB COO Salman Naseer and former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, Naqvi announced former Australian cricketer Jason Gillespie as the red-ball coach for Pakistan.
Mahmood had been appointed Pakistan's assistant coach.
Naqvi said: "Gary Kirsten will join the Pakistan team during the England tour."
He said that the coach for the Pakistan women will also be announced soon.
"Everybody watched the way the team played by standing united. The problems escalate with the differences. The PCB's job is not to collect money but to spend it on cricket," Naqvi said.
"The work is underway to upgrade the stadiums. There are problems at the stadiums that need to be addressed. The condition of the stadium in Karachi is quite bad," he said.
Speaking about fast bowler Ihsanullah, Naqvi said: "We are waiting for the medical report about Ihsanullah. We received complaints that Ihsanullah's treatment was not being done in the right way. Those who are responsible for those will be brought to justice."
Meanwhile, between 1993 and 2004, Kirsten showcased his skills in 101 Tests and 185 one-day internationals for South Africa. He had also guided India to triumph in the 2011 50-over World Cup.
Next month, Kirsten will embark on an adventure with the England tour, where Pakistan were set to engage in four T20Is. "Understanding the current state of the team and plotting a course towards our aspirations is crucial," emphasised Kirsten. "Securing victories in global tournaments, though challenging, remains our primary goal. Whether it's the upcoming June tournament or future events, achieving success in these competitions would be extraordinary."
Meanwhile, Gillespie, aged 49, boasted an illustrious career with 71 Tests and 97 ODIs for Australia. His coaching prowess shone through as he steered Yorkshire to victory in the English County Championship consecutively in 2014 and 2015.
"Taking the reins of the Pakistan cricket team is a significant milestone for any coach, given its rich history and fervent supporters," remarked Gillespie.
