Pakistan got eliminated in group stage of a T20 World Cup for the first time.
Pakistan lost to the USA and India in their first two matches. They did defeat Canada in their third match but needed Ireland to defeat the USA so that they could go into the Super 8s. However, the Ireland v USA match in Florida got washed out and confirmed that Pakistan was eliminated from the race for Super 8s, with the USA going to the next stage along with India.
As per the Geo News report, Kirsten claimed that there is "no unity" in the side and he has "never seen such a situation" in his long coaching career.
“There’s no unity in Pakistan’s team. They call it a team, but it isn’t a team. They aren’t supporting each other; everyone is separated, left and right. I’ve worked with many teams, but I’ve never seen such a situation,” Kirsten was quoted as saying.
In response to his stunning expose of his team, former India star spinner Harbhajan Singh urged Kirsten to return to coach India rather than wasting time to coach Pakistan.
"Don't waste ur time there Gary .. Come back to Coach Team INDIA .. Gary Kirsten One of the rare .. A Great Coach, Mentor, Honest nd very dear friend to all in the our 2011 Team .. our winning coach of 2011 worldcup . Special man Gary @Gary_Kirsten," Harbhajan posted on X.
Meanwhile, noted Pakistan TV anchor Fakr-E-Alam reacted to Kirsten’s statement and posted: “Deeply disturbing statement of Pakistan coach Gary Kirsten. If it is true the players responsible must be taken out of the team irrespective of their stats and star status.”
Pakistan team will have a few days of rest before they prep for the two-Test series against Bangladesh at home.