PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi reveals reason behind Shane Watson’s refusal to coach Pakistan

Mosin Naqvi, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, has disclosed the reason behind former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson’s refusal to join as Pakistan head coach.

It was previously reported that Watson rejected PCB’s offer as he has broadcast and other coaching commitments.

Meanwhile, Naqvi stated that the news regarding Watson’s appointment was leaked by too many media outlets which was the primary reason for his rejection. He went on to acknowledge that most of the things said leaked were not true.

“We were also in talks with Shane Watson, and one reason for him not accepting the offer was because so many things leaked out in the media, most of which were not correct,” Naqvi told Geo News.

Shane Watson takes U-turn from Pakistan head coach race

Naqvi had assured that the board will soon appoint a coach during the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL) final between Multan Sultans and Islamabad United on March 18 in Karachi.

“I assure you that we will appoint the head coach within the next one week or ten days,” Naqvi told reporters.

Pakistan’s former head coach Grant Bradburn parted ways with the team following their forgettable campaign in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup held in India. Following this setback, Babar Azam stepped down from the captaincy role, paving the way for Shan Masood to take over leadership responsibilities in both ODIs and Tests, while ace speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi assumed the role of T20I captain.

PCB set to follow hybrid model for coaches

Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain and team director, Mohammed Hafeez, assumed coaching duties during Pakistan’s series against Australia and New Zealand. Nevertheless, Pakistan endured a string of unfortunate results, suffering whitewash defeats in their two-match Test series against Australia and losing the T20I series against the Black Caps 4-1. Shortly after their underwhelming performance, PCB parted ways with Hafeez. In addition, Pakistan’s lackluster form invited harsh criticism from fans and former cricketing legends alike, despite changing the captain. It further intensifies pressure on the governing body to find a new coach.