NEW DELHI: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that talks were held with former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson regarding the vacant national team head coach position.
However, Watson opted out of the contract, with one of the reasons cited being the media leaks surrounding the negotiations.
The search for a new men's national team head coach commenced after Grant Bradburn's departure following last year's World Cup. Mohammad Hafeez temporarily filled the role during tours to Australia and New Zealand but stepped down from his post as team director last month, leaving the position vacant once again.
Watson emerged as a prime candidate for the coaching role, having impressed during his stint with Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators, guiding them to the playoffs for the first time in five years. However, despite advanced discussions, Watson withdrew from consideration, prioritizing his existing coaching and commentary commitments.
Naqvi addressed Watson's involvement in the discussions, stating, "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."
Assuring swift action, Naqvi pledged to finalize the appointment of the new head coach within the next one week or ten days, offering reassurance to fans and stakeholders.
"I assure you that we will appoint the head coach within the next one week or ten days," Naqvi told reporters during the PSL final between Multan Sultans and Islamabad United.
Naqvi's approach, focusing on foreign coaches, marks a departure from his predecessor Zaka Ashraf's strategy, which emphasized the development of local talent. As the search for the new head coach continues, PCB remains committed to selecting the most suitable candidate to lead Pakistan's national team.
(With inputs from ANI)
