PCB faces setback in pursuit of Shane Watson for Pakistan coaching role

12 March, 2024

According to a local newspaper, Watson, who is currently coaching Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine, has demanded a hefty salary package and there are high chances that PCB won’t be able to convince him.

“Shane Watson has demanded a hefty sum to take up the coaching responsibilities, which amounts to millions in Pakistani rupees. Watson's demeanor suggests that he might not be interested in taking up the role, as he does not want to stay away from his family for long periods. PCB is insisting that Watson take on the role due to limited options, but it is unlikely that deal will be finalised with Watson,” the report said.

Mike Hesson and Daren Sammy are among the contenders for the coaching role of the Pakistan national men’s cricket team.

Hesson and Sammy are currently working as head coach for Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi, respectively.

“Discussions have also been held with Mike Hesson, but he has not given a positive response yet and has asked for time to consider,” the report added.

The Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB is interested in appointing a strong coaching staff for the cricket team. However, appointing well-known coaches would be a tall order since most of them are working with leagues all over the world.

In order to fill the vacancy in time for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand at home, the PCB is also considering the possibility of appointing local coaches along with foreign consultants.

The five-match T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand is likely to be played in the second week of April, according to sources.

It must be noted Mickey Arthur, Grant Bradburn and Andrew Puttick, who were transferred to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore after a change in their portfolios in November 2023, left their respective positions in January this year.

In April 2023, Arthur was named Director of the Pakistan men’s cricket team while Bradburn was roped in as head coach of the Pakistan national men’s side earlier last year. Former South Africa cricketer Puttick worked as batting coach since April 2023.

The decision was taken amicably between all the parties involved, according to PCB.