Cricket: Mohsin to continue as coach for ‘indefinite period’

PCB chairman removes interim tag, Pakistan look to secure 2-0 lead.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Zaka Ashraf has asked Mohsin Khan to continue as the team’s head coach, extending his role to assignments even after next month’s tour of Bangladesh.

Mohsin, who was serving as the chief selector, was appointed as interim coach for the ongoing series against Sri Lanka after Waqar Younis resigned, citing health reasons.

A committee, formed to find Younis’ replacement, shortlisted candidates for the post as Mohsin filled in the slot. The PCB officials then also confirmed Mohsin’s extension to the tour of Bangladesh as the coach-hunting committee needed more time.

However, a meeting between the PCB chairman and Mohsin, held after Pakistan’s eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the first One-Day International (ODI), has seen the former Test opener being offered the role ‘for an indefinite period’.

“The PCB chairman has asked me to continue as coach for an indefinite period,” Mohsin told The Express Tribune from Dubai. “I’ve agreed because coaching and selection are the areas where I have always felt I can serve my country really well.

“The chairman was delighted with the team’s performance and wants continuation of the progress,” said Mohsin while adding that the coach-hunting committee was not discussed.

Pakistan seek 2-0 lead  

Meanwhile, Mohsin hoped the team will continue its good form and win the second ODI against Sri Lanka that takes place today. “We did well in all departments in the first match,” he said. “But there is still room for improvement. As far as team selection is concerned, we will assess the conditions before the match.”

Hafeez warned

Meanwhile, Mohsin said that all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez was warned for his loose shot in the first match and cautioned the team against complacency. .

“We can’t afford to be complacent. Hafeez played a loose shot and he’s been warned,” added Mohsin.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 14^th,  2011.