Butt backs Waqar for the Australian job

Former PCB chief pleased to see former captain in contention.

KARACHI: Former chief of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ijaz Butt has backed Waqar Younis for the vacant post of Australia’s bowling coach, terming him the best candidate for the job.

Waqar, who is based in Sydney, was interviewed for the post after the sudden resignation of former Australia paceman Craig McDermott. The former Pakistan captain had a decent stint as bowling and head coach of the Pakistan team before he announced his resignation last year.

While Waqar stated that he was quitting due to ‘personal and health reasons’, his willingness to take up the Australian job in a few months’ time has raised eyebrows. Butt, who was the board’s chief during Waqar’s tenure, denied there was more to the story.

“He wasn’t well when he quit,” Butt told The Express Tribune. “He did not fake illness and was advised a proper rest. It’s very good to see him fit again and back in contention for the coaching role. I wish him luck for his endeavour. Hopefully, he will get the job. I am confident Australian bowlers will benefit from him as he is very talented and hardworking coach.

“His appointment in Australia will also be an honour for Pakistan.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 9^th, 2012.