Former Pakistan cricket team coach Mickey Arthur is likely to return to take up the responsibility of the Men in Green but this time, he might not have a physical presence.
If Pakistan's news reports are to be believed, the South African-born Arthur will be offering his services mostly online but will be present with the team for the next 50-over World Cup which will be held in India later this year.
The 54-year-old former first-class cricketer will be working for Derbyshire County Cricket Club as a full-time coach, the reports added. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will appoint an assistant to Arthur who will be in charge of the team in his absence.
Arthur has been a successful coach, who has led teams such as South Africa, Australia, and Sri Lanka besides Pakistan who he led between 2016 and 2019. He also helped Derbyshire achieve a good form during his stint which kicked off in November 2021.
Recently, PCB's new chief Najam Sethi said in a press conference that Arthur’s return as the coach of Pakistan was very much on the cards.
“I want to make it clear I am in direct negotiations with Mickey and I think 90 percent of the discussions. We have covered many areas and very soon we may give you good news. “If Mickey comes he will be making his own team and we will only find how much we need to pay them and this matter will be resolved in 2-3 days,” he said.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi reacted to the reports of Pakistan roping in an online coaching saying it was "beyond comprehension".
"The concept of online coaching by a foreign coach for the national team is beyond comprehension; every era has the personal likes and dislikes of the captain to sustain Pakistan cricket. It will be necessary to work at the grassroots to provide the best training to the budding players," he was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan.
The social media also reacted to Arthur coaching Pakistan online with funny memes.
Here are some:
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