There is drama in Pakistan Cricket once again. This time, Pakistan Cricket Board has had to cope with mass resignations. Mickey Arthur, Grant Bradburn and Andrew Puttick, who were demoted to National Cricket Academy roles after World Cup disappointment, have all resigned.
“All three individuals informed the Pakistan Cricket Board of their decision to leave their respective jobs by the end of January 2024. The decision was taken amicably between all the stakeholders. The PCB wishes them well in their future endeavours and is grateful for their services,” PCB said in a statement.
During Najam Sethi’s administration, PCB went out of its way to convince Mickey Arthur to return for a second stint ahead of the Asia Cup and World Cup. After initial reluctance, he accepted the offer. He joined in as the Team Director with Grant Bradburn as the head coach.
However, even though Pakistan became World No 1 team in ICC ODI Rankings, things did not go down well in Asia Cup and World Cup.
Pakistan lost to India in both Asia Cup and World Cup. Babar Azam-led team also failed to reach the final of Asia Cup and the semifinals of the World Cup.
In his previous stint, Arthur guided Pakistan to ICC Champions Trophy in 2017 and World No 1 rank.
With Zaka Ashraf taking charge of PCB management committee, things started to take a turn for the worse. He openly criticised PCB and Ashraf during and after the World Cup.
“I continually witness Pakistan cricket nailing itself in the foot. The talent is there, what it needs is a good structure, good leadership, as well as continuity and sustainability, along with proper direction,” Mickey Arthur said in an interview with Wisden after being sent to NCA.
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