Ex-South African cricketer describes his short tenure with Pakistan as “tumultuous”
BY News Infinity
June 15, 2025
A Short, Challenging Chapter in Pakistan Cricket
Former South African cricketer Gary Kirsten has opened up about his early departure as Pakistan’s white-ball coach. In a candid interview on the Wisden Cricket Podcast, Kirsten described his stint as “tumultuous” and emotionally draining, citing a lack of control over key decisions—especially team selection—as the main reason for his resignation.
“It was a tumultuous few months,” Kirsten said. “I realised quite quickly I wasn’t going to have much of an influence.”
Interference and Authority Struggles
Kirsten revealed that soon after taking the role, he was stripped of any authority over squad selection. Instead of shaping the team, he was expected to coach a group he had little say in assembling.
“Once I was taken off selection and asked to take a team I didn’t pick, it became very difficult to make any meaningful impact,” he explained.
According to Kirsten, the environment was heavily influenced by external voices. He believes such interference undermines a coach’s ability to lead effectively.
“Cricket teams need to be run by cricket people,” he asserted. “When there’s a lot of outside noise—very influential noise—it’s hard for leaders to walk the journey they need to walk.”
Still Open to Returning—Under the Right Conditions
Despite the challenges, Kirsten isn’t closing the door on a future with Pakistan. However, he insists on clear boundaries and a more professional setup.
“If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow, I would go,” he said. “But I would want to go for the players, and under the right circumstances.”
Kirsten made it clear: he wants to focus on coaching, not battling politics.
“I’m too old now to be dealing with other agendas. I just want to coach a cricket team and work with the players.”
Praise for Pakistani Players
While critical of the system, Kirsten had nothing but praise for the players he coached.
“I love the Pakistan players, they’re great guys,” he said. “They feel the pressure of performance more than any other team I’ve worked with. When they lose, it’s hectic for them.”
He empathized with the emotional burden players face and reiterated the importance of building a support-focused environment.
Success Needs the Right Environment
Kirsten concluded by saying success is possible—but only with a stable, professional structure.
“When there’s no interference, you can walk down the right path,” he said. “And if the group is talented, you’re generally going to have success.”
His message was clear: Pakistan cricket has potential. But leadership must prioritize cricketing logic over external influence.
