Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has raised eyebrows over the selection of foreign coaches for the national men’s cricket team, calling it into question during an interview with a local news channel.
Hafeez, who recently served as the team’s director for a brief stint, expressed his reservations, arguing that it’s unfair to accuse local coaches of nepotism.
Reflecting on his own experience, he highlighted his qualifications as a level-one coach and emphasized the importance of considering the vast experience gained from international cricket.
“The process of my removal as director of cricket was unfortunate. I am a qualified level-one coach. Coaching courses are an education but not complete eligibility to become a coach. The experience gained from international cricket is equally valuable,” Hafeez asserted.
During his tenure as Director, Pakistan endured disappointing series losses in Australia and New Zealand, leading to Hafeez’s subsequent removal from the role.
Responding to allegations made by former PCB chairman Najam Sethi regarding nepotism among local coaches, Hafeez expressed disappointment. He refuted the claims and defending the integrity of Pakistani cricket legends.
“I strongly disagree with the statements made by the former PCB chairman. It is unjust to tarnish the reputation of esteemed former players. Pakistan has got legends of cricket who are admired by the rest of the world,” Hafeez remarked.
“This is a slavish mindset of PCB that only a foreign coach should be appointed, overlooking the potential and capabilities of local talent. There’s no evidence to suggest that local coaches engage in nepotism or favouritism.”
As the PCB prepares to announce the coaching staff for the Pakistan men’s team, reports suggest that former South African batter Gary Kirsten and ex-Australian pacer Jason Gillespie are set to assume roles as white-ball and red-ball head coaches, respectively.
Meanwhile, Pakistan finds itself trailing 2-1 in the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand, following a defeat in the fourth T20I.
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