Head coach Gary Kirsten has strongly criticized the Pakistan men's national team players following their disappointing exit from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup during the group stage. Kirsten expressed concerns over the team's lack of unity and essential skills, delivering a stern message to the players after their final group match against Ireland.
"There's no unity in Pakistan's team. They call it a team, but it isn't a team. They aren't supporting each other; everyone is separated, left and right. I've worked with many teams, but I've never seen such a situation," Kirsten reportedly conveyed to the players.
According to reports from Pakistan media, Kirsten individually addressed each player in the squad, highlighting the lack of unity as the primary reason for their failure to progress to the Super Eight stage. Pakistan suffered a shocking defeat to debutants the United States and subsequently lost to arch-rivals India, despite bowling them out for a low score.
Geo Super News reported Kirsten's disappointment with the players' inadequate skills and fitness levels. He specifically criticized their shot selection, remarking, "Players seem unsure about which shots to play in different situations," and issued a warning regarding future selections.
"Players who improve in these areas will be included in the team; otherwise, they will be dropped," Kirsten allegedly warned the players.
Kirsten, who took charge of Pakistan's white-ball team just before the T20 World Cup, had joined the squad following his stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Despite his brief tenure, Kirsten was alarmed by the reported factions within the team, as earlier noted by the Pakistani media.
The 56-year-old, formerly India's coach, was accompanied by former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie, who oversees Pakistan's red-ball team. Reports suggested internal divisions within the squad, with factions reportedly supporting different players for leadership roles.
While Kirsten's remarks have caused a stir in the Pakistan media, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh weighed in on social media, urging Kirsten to return to India and take over the coaching reins from Rahul Dravid.
"Don’t waste ur (your) time there Gary... Come back to Coach Team INDIA... Gary Kirsten, One of the rare diamonds... A Great Coach, Mentor, Honest and very dear friend to all in our 2011 Team.. our winning coach of the 2011 World Cup (sic). Special man Gary, @Gary_Kirsten," Harbhajan tweeted.
Former captain Wasim Akram also criticized the Pakistan players, blaming them for their own downfall. Kirsten's comments appear to align with Akram's assessment of the team's internal challenges.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) now faces decisions regarding the team's future following Kirsten's critical assessment. There are speculations about potential changes in coaching staff and squad composition in response to these developments.
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