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