Quetta Gladiators are gearing up for a significant transformation in their coaching setup as they prepare for the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL) season. Reports say Shane Watson will be the new head coach, replacing Moin Khan who will become team director.
Shane Watson, a former Australia all-rounder, recently concluded his stint as an assistant coach with the Delhi Capitals in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. After DC finished ninth, Watson was released from his position. He last played for Chennai Super Kings.
Now, he is ready to return to the Quetta Gladiators, where he played from 2018 to 2020.
Having been part of the squad that clinched the PSL title in 2019, Watson brings a wealth of experience to his new coaching role. However, it’s worth noting that 2019 was also the last time the Quetta Gladiators qualified for the PSL playoffs.
Watson’s PSL journey began with Islamabad United before he switched to the Quetta Gladiators, playing a pivotal role in their maiden title victory. His remarkable performance earned him the Player of the Tournament accolade, with 430 runs at a striking rate of 143.81.
ESPNcricinfo reports that Watson and the Gladiators have agreed, with an official announcement expected on Wednesday. This coaching change follows a recent trend in the PSL, with Islamabad United appointing Mike Hesson as their team director.
The impact of Watson’s appointment on the coaching and captaincy structure at Quetta Gladiators remains uncertain. Sarfaraz Ahmed has been leading the side, but the team’s failure to qualify for the playoffs in the last four years has heightened the pressure on him.
As the PSL Player Draft approaches, Watson will soon have a clear picture of his squad. The Gladiators have already made moves in the trading market, acquiring Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim Jnr in exchange for pacer Naseem Shah.
