Why Gary Kirsten cannot become India’s new head coach even if he leaves Pakistan?

The South African currently works as the batting coach and mentor of the Gujarat Titans.

Why Gary Kirsten cannot become India’s new head coach even if he leaves Pakistan?

Gary Kirsten (Image via ESPN)

Gary Kirsten coached the Indian Cricket Team for four years from 2008 to 2011, replacing the unpopular Greg Chappell. The South African coached India to their first World Cup triumph in 28 years. His tenure finished after the tournament and he left the Indian team. Thirteen years later, Kirsten is appointed as Pakistan’s white-ball coach. 

The Pakistan Cricket Board recently announced that Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie are appointed as new Pakistan coaches. Kirsten was given responsibility for the white -ball team (ODIs and T20s), while Gillespie took over the Test team. 

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So why did Kirsten take the Pakistan gig and rule out a possible return to the Indian team? The South African currently works as the batting coach and mentor of the Gujarat Titans (GT), which pays pretty well.

If Kirsten decides to take the role as Indian head coach, he will need to quit his role with GT. As per BCCI rule, an IPL coach cannot become the coach for the national side.

The Indian role is a full-time gig as well, meaning Kirsten would only get a two-month break during the IPL. Now that he is Pakistan coach, the South African gets breaks during every Pakistan’s red-ball matches. 

Gary Kirsten targets an ICC trophy 

Gary Kirsten appeared on the PCB Podcast alongside Jason Gillespie. The duo talked about their plans with the Pakistan team and what their targets are. Kirsten confirmed that he wanted to win an ICC tournament soon. 

Gary Kirsten
Gary Kirsten (Image via ESPN)
If you can win one of those three ICC Events, that will be an amazing achievement on its own, whether it's the upcoming event or it is two years from now.
Gary Kirsten on the PCB Podcast

Kirsten’s job as Pakistan coach begins in May end, after the conclusion of the IPL. His first hurdle will be the 2024 T20 World Cup, which begins on 2nd June. His first match in the tournament would be against the USA and will face his former side, India, on 9th June. 

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