After facing resistance from players, former Pakistan skipper Mohammad Hafeez has decided to step down as Pakistan Team Director. In a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the decision has been revealed as an amicable one, with the PCB and Hafeez parting ways on good terms.
“Hafeez’s passion for the game has inspired players and his mentorship during the tour of Australia and New Zealand have been of immense importance. The PCB wishes Hafeez good luck and success in his future endeavours,” the statement from the PCB read.
Players and coaches’ displeasure with Mohammad Hafeez
Mohammad Hafeez joined the Pakistan team in November last year. However, his short tenure was filled with controversial statements and dissatisfied players. As per reports in the Pakistani media, players and even coaches were unhappy with the former cricketer’s insistent advice.
“He holds very long meetings and gives long lectures, and some of the players get restless because the same things are repeated,” a report suggested last month. The report also claimed that batting coach Adam Hollioake was unhappy with Hafeez’s involvement in team functioning.
The former Pakistan skipper also came under fire for his comments on Haris Rauf. After the fast bowler expressed his desire to not travel to Australia for the 3-match Test series, Hafeez tried to make an example of him. This had pushed the fast bowler to the brink, and he even contemplated taking an early retirement from international cricket.
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