Aakash Chopra comments on Pakistan cricket turmoil after Gary Kirsten's leak statement

Pakistan's early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup has ignited a storm of criticism from former cricketers and experts. Among the most striking revelations was Pakistan head coach Gary Kirsten's candid assessment of the team’s internal issues. 

The team, led by Babar Azam—who resumed captaincy from Shaheen Afridi just before the tournament—failed to advance past the group stage after losses to the USA and India.

Rumors of discord within the squad have been circulating, and Kirsten's leaked comments have only added fuel to the fire. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra weighed in on the situation with his trademark wit.

"It worked like ghee on fire. Gary Kirsten has probably said that he didn't say anything like that, but Pakistan cricket is like a strainer; whatever you put, it leaks from the other end," Chopra said.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh also made a bold request to Gary Kirsten, urging him to leave his current role and return to coach the Indian team. 

"Don't waste your time there [with Pakistan] Gary. Come back to coach Team India," Harbhajan posted on X.

"A great coach, mentor, honest and very dear friend to all our 2011 team," he added.

According to a local media report, Kirsten had a frank discussion with the Pakistan team after their World Cup exit, expressing concerns over the players' fitness levels, which he felt did not meet international standards. 

The report quoted him criticizing the team's skill levels and lack of clarity in shot selection despite their extensive match experience.

Kirsten also pointed out a significant lack of unity within the squad, something he found unprecedented in his coaching career. He stressed that players who show improvements in fitness, skill, and teamwork will secure their places in the team, while those who do not will face exclusion.