My goal is to unite Pakistan’s white-ball team, says newly-appointed coach Gary Kirsten

On Sunday (April 28), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed Australia's former Jason Gillespie as the senior team's Test coach whereas South African legend Gary Kirsten became the new white-ball coach. Kirsten and Gillespie are proven coaching names in world cricket. After Kirsten's appointment, who has also served as India and SA's coach in the past, the former cricketer revealed his ultimate goal with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green white-ball team.

'It's a tremendous honour'

Speaking on his appointment, Kirsten said,"It's a tremendous honour to be entrusted with the responsibility of coaching the Pakistan men's national team in white-ball cricket and to rejoin the international cricket arena after some time. I eagerly anticipate this opportunity and aim to contribute positively to the Pakistan men's national team in limited-overs cricket."

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'My goal is to unite Pakistan men's white-ball team, harnessing their talents towards a common objective'

He added, "One of the beautiful aspects of cricket is its universality. Across cultures, there's a shared understanding when we discuss the game. My goal is to unite the Pakistan men's white-ball team, harnessing their considerable talents towards a common objective, and achieving success together on the field."

Under Kirsten, Pakistan will be eager to take giant strides in limited-overs format. They had a miserable run in the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, where they failed to make it to the semifinals. The South Africa'sstrategy is primarily focused on prioritising continuity in team selections, create a settled environment where players are given a long run and allowed to perform at their best.

The South African's first major assignment will be the 2024 T20 World Cup, where one-time winners Pakistan is in Group A along with India, Canada, USA and Ireland.