Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has predicted that Gary Kirsten, the current white-ball coach of Pakistan, will be removed from his position following the conclusion of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Despite the success Kirsten has enjoyed as a coach, including leading India to the 2011 World Cup title, Pakistan's recent performances have been underwhelming.

The 53-year-old shared his thoughts in a video on his YouTube channel, stating that it would be a significant achievement for Pakistan if they managed to finish in the top four in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Kirsten, who was appointed as Pakistan’s white-ball coach earlier this year, oversaw the team’s dismal performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup, where they suffered group-stage exits after losses to the United States and India.

"Congratulations to Gary Kirsten. He will be at the helm of the team till the Champions Trophy. However, he will be fired after the Champions Trophy. I am saying this now that it will be tata, bye bye for him. It will be a big achievement for Pakistan to make it to the top four. They have also stepped into the politics of Pakistani cricket. They won't be successful," Basit said.

Kirsten was present at a crucial meeting held by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on September 23 in Lahore. The meeting, dubbed the 'connection camp,' involved key discussions between the team’s head coaches and senior players, with topics such as workload management and team unity on the agenda.