Gary Kirsten on India-Pakistan Clash: "Two Days Ago is Forgotten, The Team is Motivated"
Gary Kirsten, the former India World Cup-winning coach now leading Pakistan, emphasizes resilience and motivation ahead of the high-stakes India vs. Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup.
Gary Kirsten, closely associated with Indian cricket for most of the past 16 years, finds himself in a unique position at the Twenty20 World Cup. As the former head coach of India (2008-2011), Kirsten has returned to the cricketing arena, this time as the head coach of Pakistan. He has been with the Pakistan team for only 13 days, but he has already integrated well into his new role. "It's been a real privilege to work with the Pakistan team. I've thoroughly enjoyed the players; they're lovely guys, giving their best for their country," Kirsten remarked on Thursday, on the eve of the highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan.
Despite his short tenure, Kirsten has quickly adapted to the demands of coaching Pakistan. Addressing concerns about whether he might share insights about the Indian team with the Pakistan squad, Kirsten stated, "These players have seen enough of each other and how they play. In the end, we want to make sure that we get our game right. Look at the conditions and what is required because I think that's going to be a big play for tomorrow." He emphasized that knowledge about international teams is widely accessible in the public domain.
Kirsten's experience with India includes two significant matches against Pakistan, notably the 2011 World Cup semifinal in Mohali, which India won, and a 2009 Champions Trophy match in South Africa. Reflecting on the current atmosphere, Kirsten noted, "It's a little bit different because it's not in India or Pakistan. I went for a ride early this morning around the stadium, and I felt there's going to be a good vibe tomorrow. It's exciting to have so many people supporting the two teams."
Kirsten's tenure with Pakistan has had a rocky start, with the team losing their opening match to the lower-ranked US. Facing criticism back in Pakistan, Kirsten was asked how he plans to motivate the players after such a defeat. He responded confidently, "International sides do not require motivation. It's never nice not winning games of cricket for any player. They're trying their best. I don't think I needed to motivate this team for this game. The important thing is that we operate genuinely as a team. Yes, we need individuals to make good performances, but playing games like this is a real team effort."
Emphasizing resilience, Kirsten added, "The team's motivated. Two days ago is forgotten. We can't take it back. It's gone. So, move on." As the match against India approaches, Kirsten and the Pakistan team are focused on the present, ready to give their best shot in what promises to be an exhilarating encounter.
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