No extension for Mickey Arthur & Co as PCB plans post-World Cup overhaul

Mickey Arthur‘s time as Pakistan’s head coach will come to a close next week with the PCB deciding against renewing his contract. It’s not just Arthur. The board’s decision will mean that nearly the entire coaching staff of the senior men’s team – batting coach Grant Flower, bowling coach Azhar Mahmood, and fitness trainer Grant Luden – will not have their contracts extended.

According to a statement released by the PCB today, the board will be “immediately undertaking a robust recruitment process” to fill these roles ahead of Pakistan’s next international commitment, a Test series in October against Sri Lanka.

With the contracts of Arthur, Flower, Azhar and Luden all ending on August 15, none of the coaches have been sacked per se. But Arthur, certainly, had expressed an eagerness to continue: in an exhaustive review conducted by the PCB after the World Cup, Arthur asked for a chance to present his report, which was widely seen as a chance for him to defend his record and make a case for an extension.

Ehsan Mani, the PCB chairman, said in a statement: “I am thankful to the PCB Cricket Committee for submitting their recommendations following an exhaustive and detailed review process. The committee comprised of individuals who possess tremendous acumen, experience and knowledge. The unanimous recommendation of the Committee was that it was time for new leadership and a fresh approach. I am happy to accept their strong recommendations.

“On behalf of the PCB, I want to sincerely thank Mickey Arthur, Grant Flower, Grant Luden and Azhar Mahmood for their hard work and unwavering commitment during their tenures with the national men’s team. We wish them every success in their future endeavors.”

More to follow…

Source: ESPN Crickinfo

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