Pakistan cricket is facing a difficult period after Babar Azam‘s team made an early exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The Men in Green, competing in Group A, managed to win only two out of their four matches, finishing third behind India and USA, and thus failing to advance to the Super 8 stage.
In the wake of Pakistan’s elimination, both fans and experts have criticized the team for their subpar performance. Several former Pakistan cricketers have also condemned the team’s efforts and suggested that Babar should relinquish his captaincy to allow someone else to take on the role.
Gary Kirsten’s viral statement
Amidst the turmoil, a statement attributed to Pakistan Men’s cricket team coach Gary Kirsten went viral across social media platforms. The quote, which cast the Pakistan team in a negative light, claimed that the team lacked unity and that players were not supporting each other.
“There’s no unity in Pakistan’s team. They call it a team, but it isn’t a team. They aren’t supporting each other; everyone is separated, left and right. I’ve worked with many teams, but I’ve never seen such a situation,” read the viral quote attributed to Kirsten.
Pakistan’s coach Gary Kirsten shocking statement,
“There’s no unity in Pakistan’s team, They call it a team, but it isn’t a team. They aren’t supporting each other; everyone is separated, left and right. I’ve worked with many teams, but I’ve never seen such a situation”.
— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) June 17, 2024
Also READ: Pakistan legend Younis Khan names a surprising pick to replace Babar Azam as T20I captain
Here is the truth
However, inquiries have uncovered that there is no documented interview, whether written or recorded, in which Kirsten made the quoted remarks. The statements seem to come from sources within the team and were circulated on social media but have not been authenticated by Kirsten himself.
In fact, the former India head coach has clarified to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that he is not active on social media and only issues public statements during press conferences.
The quote regarding unity in Pakistan team in the name of Gary Kirsten is ABSOLUTELY FAKE. pic.twitter.com/vdHE0wIUP3
— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) June 17, 2024
Also READ: Andy Flower names Pakistan’s next captain following early exit from T20 World Cup 2024
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