Gary Kirsten, Wahab Riaz submit Pakistan’s T20 World Cup performance reports to PCB

Gary Kirsten and Wahab Riaz (Source:Twitter)

After Pakistan’s disappointing performance at the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024, the team finds itself at a critical juncture. Head coach Gary Kirsten and selector Wahab Riaz have submitted their tour reports to PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, potentially setting a scenario for significant changes in the team’s leadership and structure.

The Men in Green’s early exit from the marquee event, failing to progress beyond the group stage, has sparked debate and scrutiny of the team’s performance and management.

With defeats to the USA and India proving particularly damaging, the campaign ended in disappointment, leaving fans and cricket authorities demanding answers and action.

The submission of tour reports by Kirsten and Riaz marks a crucial step in the PCB’s evaluation process. These reports are expected to provide insights into the team’s preparation, performance, and internal dynamics during the tournament.

Also read: Ahmed Shehzad lambasts Mohammad Rizwan for playing religion card

No unity in Pakistan’s team: Gary Kirsten

Adding fuel to the fire are the alleged comments by Kirsten regarding disunity within the squad, which have added fuel to the ongoing debates about team bond and leadership.

“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 said as per reports. Notably, other reports also surfaced later debunking these statements.

The future of captain Babar Azam hangs in the balance, with the PCB reportedly open to a change in leadership. However, the lack of clear successors complicates this decision, after the recent back-and-forth involvement of Shaheen Shah Afridi’s brief captaincy stint. 

Also read: Babar, Shaheen, Rizwan denied NOCs for GT20 league due to Bangladesh series

The selection committee has also come under fire for its choices, particularly the continued omission of specialist leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed.

Critics have pointed to a culture of conservatism and tactical shortcomings under Babar’s captaincy, issues that the PCB must address to revitalize the team’s performance in major tournaments.