Former South African cricketer and ex-Team India coach Gary Kirsten has finally opened up about the real reason he stepped down as the head coach of the Pakistan cricket team’s white-ball squads. Kirsten revealed that he would be open to returning to the role in the future—but only if there is no outside interference in the team’s operations.
Kirsten had taken over as Pakistan’s white-ball coach (ODI and T20I) in April 2024, while Jason Gillespie was appointed as the Test coach. However, within just six months, Kirsten chose to step down. He has now been replaced by Mike Hesson.
What Did Gary Kirsten Say?
Speaking about his decision, Kirsten said he realized within a few months that he would have little influence over the team.
“It was a turbulent few months. I quickly realised I wasn’t going to have any significant impact. When I was removed from the selection process and told that my only job was to coach the team—not be involved in selecting it—it became almost impossible for me to be an effective coach,” Kirsten said.
“There was too much outside interference in the team,” he added.
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Open to Returning – With Conditions
Kirsten praised the Pakistan players and said he would be willing to return—but only in the right environment.
“If Pakistan call me tomorrow, I would go. But I’d go for the players—and only in a healthy setup,” Kirsten said.
He emphasized that cricket teams should be run by cricket people.
“When teams are not run by cricketing minds and outside influence becomes too powerful, internal leaders can’t thrive the way they should. I’m too old now to deal with someone else’s agenda. I just want to coach a cricket team and work with players. And I really liked the Pakistan players.”
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Extreme Pressure on Pakistan Players
Kirsten also pointed out the immense pressure faced by Pakistan cricketers.
“I think Pakistan players face more pressure to perform than any other team. When they lose, the environment becomes very chaotic. But they are professional players, and I’m a professional coach. In the right environment, talented teams usually succeed.”
In summary, Kirsten’s departure highlights deep-rooted structural and political issues in Pakistan cricket, despite the potential and passion of its players.