Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is planning to rope in former South African batsman Gary Kirsten as their team consultant for an extended period.
Kirsten, who played 101 Tests and 185 one-day internationals for South Africa, was India’s coach when they won the 2011 World Cup.
BCB spokesperson Jalal Yunus said that they had offered Kirsten, 50, a different role unlike that of a head coach.
He also informed that BCB would appoint a separate head coach for the national team even if it reached an agreement with Kirsten.
“He will not always be with the team, he will deal with separate issues, work with development squads like what Eddie Barlow did. He (Kirsten) will give advice but there will be a head coach,” Yunus said, adding that if he agrees, he will also work with the Under-19 and the A-team and give us advice about cricket structure.
Bangladesh has been looking for a head coach for the national cricket team since October, after former Sri Lankan opener Chandika Hathurusingha stepped down.
During his stint as a coach with Indian Team, Kirsten was praised by all players for improving and enhancing their playing techniques, motivating them and discussing tactics that can be deployed on the field.
In 2010, Prior to the start of India’s tour of South Africa, the then Indian captain MS Dhoni described Kirsten as “The best thing to happen to Indian cricket.”
With less than a year left for the start of 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, Bangladesh would be hoping to change their fortunes as they have never lifted the World Cup.
Till now the Bangladesh team have featured in five World Cups including in 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011 and in 2015.
Their best came in 2015 when they reached quarter-finals by defeating England. The Tigers, however, suffered a defeat at the hands of India and they were knocked out of 2015 WC.
Bangladesh have become a competitive side in the recent past years. They have the players who can turn the game in their favour at any point of time or from any situation. But, their attitude on-field is a matter of serious concern. Their pre-mature celebrations have many a time turned things in oppositions favour, remember the 2016 T20 WC match against India? Appointing Gary Kirsten as their consultant can prove to be a vital move for the Tigers. With his experience, Kirsten can bring maturity and stability to the team.
