The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has parted ways with Tim Nielsen, removing him from the role of assistant coach ahead of the Test series against South Africa, set to begin on December 26.
Nielsen, who joined as the high-performance red-ball coach in August, saw his short-term contract conclude following Pakistan’s tour of Australia under head coach Jason Gillespie. Despite expressing optimism about an extension and highlighting the progress made with the team, Nielsen was informed that his services were no longer required.
The decision has reportedly surprised Jason Gillespie, Pakistan’s Test head coach, who was not consulted before Nielsen’s dismissal. Sources suggest this development has led Gillespie to reassess his own future with the team.
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Gillespie has faced several setbacks recently, including his removal from the Test selection panel in October, reducing his role to matchday strategist. Communication with the PCB has reportedly been sparse, particularly after Pakistan’s white-ball series in Australia, where Gillespie acted as interim coach following Gary Kirsten’s resignation.
Both Nielsen and Gillespie have cited Nielsen’s strong rapport with players as a key asset to the team. However, Nielsen’s non-resident status in Pakistan may have contributed to the PCB’s decision not to extend his contract, despite his willingness to participate in the upcoming tours of South Africa and the West Indies.
The PCB has yet to name a replacement for Nielsen, though recent trends suggest a preference for local coaching staff. This aligns with the earlier departure of Gary Kirsten, who resigned in October under similar circumstances related to time spent outside Pakistan.
