Mickey Arthur Weighs in on Pakistan Cricket’s Coaching Drama
The Pakistan cricket coaching saga has taken another turn, with former head coach Mickey Arthur siding with Jason Gillespie after his fiery exchange with Aqib Javed.
The controversy started when Aqib Javed slammed Pakistan’s frequent coaching changes, stating:
“We have changed nearly 16 coaches and 26 selectors in the last two years. No team can function like this.”
However, former Pakistan red-ball coach Jason Gillespie hit back, accusing Javed of lobbying for a full-time coaching role and even calling him a “clown” on social media.
Arthur supported Gillespie’s stance, criticizing Pakistan cricket’s chaotic management:
“Pakistan cricket keeps shooting itself in the foot. There are so many talented players, yet chaos always takes over. The machine that operates in Pakistan cricket pushed agendas and manipulated media narratives,” Arthur said.
The ongoing coaching instability continues to cast a shadow over Pakistan cricket, despite the presence of world-class coaching talent like Gary Kirsten and Gillespie.
Islamabad United Appoint Ian Butler as New Bowling Coach for PSL 10
In a separate development, Islamabad United, the most successful Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise, has parted ways with Azhar Mahmood ahead of PSL 10.
Mahmood, who was part of Islamabad United’s PSL 1 title win in 2016 and served as assistant coach in PSL 2024, has been replaced by former New Zealand pacer Ian Butler.
Butler, who played 8 Tests, 26 ODIs, and 19 T20Is for New Zealand, expressed excitement about his first coaching stint in Pakistan:
“Islamabad United has a fantastic legacy, and I’m looking forward to working with the bowling group to push for another title,” Butler said.
With PSL 10 approaching, Islamabad United aims to continue its dominance in the league with a fresh coaching setup.
