Legendary Australian all-rounder front-runner for Pakistan's head coach job, PCB also considering West Indies' hero for the role

In a major report that surfaced on Sunday (March 10) morning, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is mulling over giving the keys to the men's national cricket team to legendary Australian all-rounder Shane Watson. According to a report in ESPNcricinfo, the PCB is strongly considering appointing Watson as the new head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, which currently doesn't have a permanent leader at the helm.

Why Shane Watson?

The report also claimed that the PCB is mighty impressed with what Watson has been able to do with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators in the ongoing edition of the country's franchise-based competition. Watson, who is the coach of the Quetta Gladiators, has played a massive role in turning the fortunes of the team that has struggled to even make the playoffs in the last five years.

ALSO READ: WTC 2023-25 Standings: Rampaging India consolidate pole position on World Test Championship points table with 4-1 series win over England

Who else is in contention?

Apart from Watson, the PCB has also shortlisted ex-West Indies captain Darren Sammy for the head coach role. Sammy, who led West Indies to two T20 World Cup triumphs as a captain, is currently the coach of West Indies' limited-overs team. Having said that, the PCB's primary focus is to secure the services of Watson.

ALSO READ: 'I want to take completely out of this team': Rohit Sharma urges Indian players to bring this big change in mindset

As per the report, the PCB has already approached Watson but an official offer is yet to be made.

Pakistan's next assignment is against New Zealand

Currently, the Pakistan cricketers are engrossed in the PSL. After the domestic franchise-based tournament concludes, Pakistan is scheduled to host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series. The report claimed that the PCB is looking to appoint a permanent head coach for the national team before the series against New Zealand kicks off.

ALSO READ: 'I feel in the last two or three years...': Rohit Sharma's big statement on retirement plan after India's Test series win over England

ALSO READ: Jay Shah announces massive monetary incentive for Indian Test cricketers, reveals monumental increase in match fees; check details

The complete schedule of Pakistan's T20I series against New Zealand is yet to be announced. 

MORE ON SPORTS TAK: 

'Hope money is not going to...': India coach Rahul Dravid fires direct warning to players after Jay Shah launches 'Test Cricket Incentive Scheme'
IPL Mega Auction: Indian Premier League chairman Arun Dhumal drops massive update on mega auction date; check here