Pak vs USA: Gary Kirsten – Once Dhoni’s Delight, Now Babar’s Rolling Stone
Don’t be surprised if Gary Kirsten’s tenure as Pakistan’s head coach ends after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The start hasn’t gone according to plan. On Thursday, the USA stunned Pakistan by 5 runs in a thrilling Super Over contest in Dallas, Texas. Kirsten is fondly remembered by Indians for guiding MS Dhoni and Blue Brigade to a 2011 World Cup triumph. Now, with Pakistan as Babar Azam‘s rolling stone, the South African has come under harsh criticism. Also Read: USA’s win over Pakistan, cost ICC millions Irfan Pathan Criticises Gary Kirsten & Babar Azam Post the heartbreaking loss, both the team and the Pakistan Cricket Board are facing severe backlash back home. Gary Kirsten has also come in the firing line. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has openly criticised Pakistan’s head coach role, for the team’s shameful loss to the USA. “He will know that there is a lot of difference between handling Indian cricket and Pakistan cricket,” Irfan said, during commentary with Star Sports. Irfan was also critical of Pakistan skipper Babar Azam, who he felt batted miserably, and then captained poorly when the pressure was on. He slammed his choice of bowler for the Super Over and also pointed out the poor role played by head coach Gary Kirsten. After the loss to the USA, Pakistan needs to beat India on June 9th. The match will be played at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. A loss to India, and Pakistan can nearly bid their T20 World Cup campaign goodbye. As far as Gary Kirsten is concerned, he was brought on as Pakistan’s head coach with a lot of hope. However, there’s nothing much he can do, if his players put up a paltry show, like the one against the USA in Texas. Kirsten is still loved and adored by Indian cricketers and fans. However, come June 9th, he will be in the opposition corner. Team India led by Rohit Sharma knows how to deal with the opposition, especially when the color is green, and the occasion is a World Cup game. Also Read: India vs Pakistan – H2H stats in ICC events
