PCB opts against renewing Mickey Arthur’s contract

The Pakistan Cricket Board has opted against renewing head coach Mickey Arthur’s contract. Bowling coach Azhar Mahmood, batting coach Grant Flower and trainer Grant Luden will also not receive extensions to their current contracts. With the decision of the board, the Pakistan cricket team’s management structure is all set to undergo a major overhaul.

The decision was taken in a PCB cricket committee meeting which reviewed Pakistan’s performance at the World Cup. Despite a strong end to the tournament, Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-finals of the tournament. The members of the committee were unanimous in their decision to change the coaching personnel of the team. They then forwarded the recommendations to PCB chairman Ehsan Mani.

Mani confirmed the recommendations in a statement, which read:

“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.”

Mani also thanked Mickey Arthur and the coaching staff for their services to the team:

“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 endeavours. The PCB remains committed to its fans and followers and we will do our utmost to ensure that we make decisions that continue to move Pakistan cricket forward in all formats.”