The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has opted not to renew Tim Nielsen’s contract as assistant coach, removing him from his position ahead of the Test series against South Africa, which is scheduled to begin on December 26.
Nielsen, who had joined the team as a high-performance red-ball coach in August, saw his short-term contract expire after Pakistan’s recent tour of Australia, which was led by Test head coach Jason Gillespie.
Despite Nielsen’s hopes for an extension and confidence in the progress made under his leadership, the PCB informed him that his services were no longer needed.
This decision has reportedly caused concern for Gillespie, who was not consulted regarding Nielsen’s departure and is now rethinking his own future with the team. Gillespie, who had limited communication with the board and was removed from the Test selection panel in October, expressed his disappointment with the move.
Nielsen had developed a strong rapport with the players, which Gillespie considered valuable to the team. Both coaches suspect that Nielsen’s non-resident status may have played a role in the PCB’s decision. Nevertheless, Nielsen had confirmed his availability for future tours to South Africa and the West Indies.
The PCB has yet to announce a replacement for Nielsen, but it seems to be leaning toward appointing a local coaching staff member, as reflected in recent decisions, including Gary Kirsten’s resignation in October, where he cited similar concerns about his time spent outside of Pakistan.
