After the World Cup 2023, Pakistan cricket has gone through so many changes. From management to captain, everything changed and they had a fresh start. But their struggle remained the same. They lost several series recently. As per the news, PCB approached Shane Watson to coach Pakistan. But he denied it. Mosin Naqvi, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman revealed the reason behind the refusal.
PCB’s Offer and Watson’s Refusal:
The PCB has expressed interest in Shane Watson, the former Australian all-rounder, as a leading candidate for the head coaching position of the men’s national team. With the team currently lacking a head coach, the PCB is keen on securing a suitable candidate for the role before New Zealand visits Pakistan for a white-ball series in April. The board aims to appoint someone permanently to fill this crucial position. Shane Watson’s potential appointment indicates the PCB’s determination to bring in experienced and knowledgeable individuals to guide the national team.
Shane Watson has declined the offer to coach Pakistan’s cricket team, despite being the preferred candidate by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Following discussions with the PCB, the veteran Australian cricketer opted to withdraw his name from consideration. Watson, who previously served as a coach for the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League, expressed his desire to coach Pakistani players but ultimately decided against it.
Instead, Watson intends to focus on his current coaching commitments and commentary responsibilities. He is set to join the commentary team for the Indian Premier League 2024 and will also serve as the coach for the San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket. With a young family and residing in Sydney, Watson’s decision reflects his priorities and commitments outside of coaching the Pakistan national team.
Mosin Naqvi’s Reveal:
Mosin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), revealed why Shane Watson declined the offer to become Pakistan’s head coach. Naqvi clarified that while Watson indeed has broadcast and coaching commitments, the main reason for his refusal was the widespread leakage of news regarding his potential appointment. Naqvi admitted that much of the leaked information was inaccurate, which likely contributed to Watson’s decision to reject the offer.
He said, “We were also in talks with Shane Watson, and one reason for him not accepting the offer was because so many things leaked out in the media, most of which were not correct.”
Later he added, “I assure you that we will appoint the head coach within the next one week or ten days.”
After Mohammad Hafeez took over coaching duties for Pakistan’s series against Australia and New Zealand, the team faced disappointing results. They suffered whitewash defeats in Tests against Australia and lost the T20I series to New Zealand 4-1. Consequently, PCB parted ways with Hafeez, facing criticism and pressure to appoint a new coach.
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