PCB Reportedly Pursues Shane Watson for Head Coach Position
- Posted on March 10, 2024
- Sports
- By Arijit Dutta
- 205 Views
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering Shane Watson for the head coach position. Watson, currently coaching Quetta Gladiators, is under consideration due to his success in the ongoing Pakistan Super League. However, his commitments elsewhere remain a consideration. The PCB aims for a long-term appointment.
The
Pakistan
Cricket Board (PCB) is eyeing former Australian cricket star Shane Watson
for the coveted position of head coach for the national team, according to
recent reports. Watson, known for his prowess both as a batsman and a bowler
during his playing days, has emerged as one of the primary candidates for the
role, as per sources close to the PCB. His experience, leadership skills, and
understanding of the game make him an attractive choice for the board as they
seek to elevate the team's performance.
Watson
currently serves as the head coach of the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan
Super League (PSL), where he has been instrumental in guiding the team's
resurgence. Under his stewardship, the Gladiators have shown significant
improvement, marking their return to the playoffs after a five-year hiatus. His
success with Quetta has caught the attention of PCB officials, who believe he
could bring a similar level of impact to the national team.
However, despite the interest from PCB, Watson's commitment to taking up the coaching role remains uncertain. At present, he is also involved in coaching duties for the San Francisco Unicorns in the USA's Major League Cricket (MLC), adding to his busy schedule. Additionally, Watson holds commentary contracts with Star Sports for the Indian Premier League (IPL) and various ICC events, further complicating his availability for the PCB role.
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Despite
the potential challenges, PCB is keen on securing a long-term appointment for
the head coach position rather than settling for a short-term solution. With
this in mind, they are actively engaged in discussions with Watson to gauge his
interest and availability. The board aims to finalize the appointment before
the upcoming white-ball tour of Pakistan by New Zealand scheduled for April,
indicating a sense of urgency in their pursuit of a new head coach.
Shane
Watson's illustrious cricketing career, which includes 59 Test matches and
numerous ODIs and T20Is for Australia, speaks volumes about his credentials for
the coaching role. His all-round abilities and ability to perform under
pressure make him a respected figure in the cricketing world. Should he accept
the offer from PCB, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his career,
one where he transitions from being a cricketing icon on the field to a guiding
force from the sidelines.