Pakistan’s white-ball coach Gary Kirsten has submitted a confidential assessment report to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following the national team’s disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Sources told PakProfile.com on Wednesday that the report has been sent to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who will review the findings, which highlight issues such as player fitness, discipline, and game awareness that contributed to the team’s early exit from the tournament.
The Green Shirts failed to progress to the Super Eight stage after unexpected losses to the United States and arch-rivals India. Victories against Canada and Ireland were not enough to advance further in the competition.
The subpar performance triggered harsh criticism from fans and former cricketers, leading PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi to announce a “major surgery” in the squad. However, any decisions regarding the team’s future will be made after reviewing reports from Kirsten and senior manager Wahab Riaz.
Kirsten’s concerns, as revealed by sources, focus on the players’ fitness levels, which he described as below the required standard. He also criticized the team’s skill level, pointing out a lack of strategic shot selection despite extensive playing experience. He emphasized that moving forward, only players who demonstrate unity, maintain fitness, and enhance their skills will be included in the team.
Wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan echoed Kirsten’s sentiments, acknowledging the justified criticism from fans. Speaking to the media in Peshawar, Rizwan expressed disappointment with the team’s performance and recognized multiple factors contributing to their losses. He stressed the importance of facing criticism constructively for future success.
India emerged victorious in the T20 World Cup 2024, defeating South Africa by seven runs in the final held in Barbados. This win marks India’s second T20 World Cup title, with their first victory in 2007 against Pakistan. The next T20 World Cup is scheduled for 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, with Pakistan already qualified due to their seventh place in the ICC T20I rankings.
