Mushtaq Ahmed Hesitant to Coach Pakistan Due to Unstable PCB Decisions

Former Pakistan coach Mushtaq Ahmed has openly expressed fear and hesitation regarding the prospect of coaching the Pakistan national cricket team once again. Speaking about the current climate within the administration, Mushtaq pointed to the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) unstable decisions and a distinct lack of job security as the primary reasons for his apprehension.

Despite his underlying reservations and anxieties about the current administrative environment, Mushtaq Ahmed did acknowledge a lingering desire to serve his home country. Describing his personal commitment to national service, he stated, "Of course I want to work for the country again. Especially at this time." However, this willingness is heavily tempered by the turbulent nature of the board's management policies.

Elaborating on the psychological toll that administrative instability takes on coaching staff, Mushtaq highlighted the fear of public humiliation and abrupt dismissals. He remarked, "Sometimes you even feel afraid to work for your own country, when you see that people are not respecting you and you are being fired due to some emotional decisions here and there." He further added that witnessing colleagues dismissed mid-tour naturally induces worry and fear among the remaining personnel.

Mushtaq also drew specific attention to past handling of team personnel by the PCB. He recalled an incident where the Pakistan Cricket Board removed coach Sarfraz Ahmed and Umar Gul midway through an England tour, alongside sending seven players back home. Defending their standing, Mushtaq noted, "Sarfraz and Umar Gul are very experienced cricketers. They have done a lot for Pakistan cricket. Sarfraz was even the captain of the team."

Criticizing the timing of such drastic measures, Mushtaq suggested that the board should exercise greater patience and composure rather than resorting to knee-jerk reactions. He asserted, "If you really want to remove them, it should definitely be done after the tour ends. At this time, there is a need to remain calm, decisions should not be made in a hurry."

Mushtaq Ahmed brings a wealth of international experience to his coaching career, having previously worked with the Pakistan national team from 2014 to 2016 and again in 2020. Presently, he is applying his expertise abroad, serving in the official capacity of spin bowling coach for the Bangladesh national cricket team.