Watson is assigned specifically for white-ball cricket, necessitating the Pakistan Cricket Board to search for a separate coach for Test matches.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed an attractive salary offer to Shane Watson, sparking his interest in potentially taking up the role of coaching the Pakistan cricket team.
Initially, Watson was hesitant due to family commitments, but after discussing a substantial remuneration, the PCB agreed, offering an annual salary of $2 million, approximately equivalent to PKR 4.6 crore per month.
Should this deal materialize, Watson would become the most expensive coach in Pakistan’s cricketing history. The board is also open to accommodating his other demands. According to close sources, Watson is seriously contemplating this offer and is waiting for a formal, written proposal. Upon receiving it, he might respond positively.
However, Watson has mentioned his inability to commit to a full-time presence in Pakistan, preferring to be available for series, national team camps, and accompanying the team during overseas tours.
Wahab Riaz is currently in discussions with Watson concerning the contract terms. CEO Salman Naseer plays a crucial role in these negotiations, with both Naseer and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi currently attending ICC meetings in Dubai. The situation is expected to progress upon their return.
If Watson agrees to proceed with the contract, an official announcement regarding his appointment is anticipated soon. The Pakistan cricket team’s forthcoming event is a T20 series against New Zealand in April, which might be Watson’s initial coaching assignment. However, the true test lies ahead in the World Cup.
Furthermore, the PCB is considering the potential removal of Shaheen Afridi’s T20I captaincy role. In this decision-making process, the incoming coach’s opinion will carry great importance, as it will influence choices concerning team leadership.
