KARACHI:Mohsin Khan has expressed his willingness to continue as the national team’s head coach and hinted at rejecting an offer, if made by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), that reduces his role to a batting coach.
Mohsin, who was chief selector before being appointed head coach as the PCB searched for a full-time replacement to Waqar Younis, had his tenure extended for the Bangladesh tour after an impressive show saw Pakistan clinch the Test, One-Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 series against higher-ranked Sri Lanka.
However, recent developments suggest that the coach-hunting committee is close to finalising a deal with Australian Dav Whatmore who gained recognition after his stint with Sri Lanka led the underdogs to World Cup triumph in 1996.
While the appointment of separate coaches is also likely for all three departments of the game, officials have suggested that Mohsin may be offered a role to assist the batsmen. Mohsin, however, looks likely to refuse such an offer.
“I’m always ready to serve Pakistan but with grace and dignity,” the coach told The Express Tribune. “I’ll not avail an opportunity at the cost of my self-respect. I’ll refuse any offer which ignores years of service for my country as a cricketer, selector and coach.”
Mohsin added, however, that he was yet to be approached officially in this regard.
“The last time I met PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf, he assured me that I will continue my role,” said Mohsin, who has drawn appreciation from various quarters, including former captains Shahid Afridi and Aamir Sohail.
‘Team mentally tough now’
Mohsin, while terming his experience as head coach successful, felt his stint helped the players improve their mental toughness and fighting spirit.
“At this stage you can’t teach players the basics. My goal was to make them mentally tough and instil the fighting spirit in the team and I’ve succeeded to an extent. This is visible in the way we’ve won matches from hopeless positions. The side has also avoided controversies.”
‘Still room for improvement’
However, the former Test cricketer felt there was room for improvement in the team, which he can supervise.
“I’ve developed a great understanding with the players. But weak links are there and a lot of hard work still needs to be done.”
The coach praised the team for dominating Bangladesh, although the side was relatively weaker. “We were under pressure being the favourites but I’m very happy with the way team has proved their dominance, which wasn’t an easy task on their home soil.”
