Moores to PCB: Thanks, but no thanks

Former England coach declines offer to take up Pakistan assignment

LONDON: Former England coach Peter Moores has turned down the chance of becoming Pakistan coach. Moores was approached by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) but, after discussions, decided not to pursue the opportunity before a formal offer was made.

While tempted by the chance to return to international coaching, Moores was reluctant to commit to long periods away from his family. “I was hugely flattered to be approached,” Moores told Cricinfo. “And I was very tempted by such a prestigious role with an exciting team.

“But having thought about it deeply, I don’t think it is the right time for me or my family. I have committed myself to a consultancy role with Nottinghamshire and I am enjoying spending time with my kids as they grow up.”

Moores was sacked from his role as England coach for the second time almost exactly 12 months ago. While his reputation took a battering in the media following England’s poor World Cup campaign in 2015, it is clear that he is still highly thought of within the game. Both Alastair Cook and Joe Root publically credited Moores for his influence in the aftermath of England’s Ashes win last year and Nottinghamshire’s form improved dramatically after he joined in a consultancy role last year.

After failing to win any of their first five Championship matches - and only one of their first eight - Notts were bottom of Division One at the start of July. But after Moores joined, they won 14 and drew two of their remaining 20 matches across all competitions including five out of six in the Championship.

He previously coached both Sussex and Lancashire to the County Championship title, forming an especially productive partnership with Mushtaq Ahmed, currently head of Pakistan’s National Cricket Academy, during the spell at Sussex. Moores’ son, Tom, is a 19-year-old wicketkeeper batsman who represented England in the U-19 World Cup and recently joined the staff at Nottinghamshire.

Waqar Younis stepped down at Pakistan coach almost a month ago after two years in the role. His scathing report into poor discipline within the squad - and his less than flattering views on the leadership skills of Shahid Afridi - were subsequently leaked to the media, while he cited conflicts at board level as another issue inhibiting the team’s progress.

The coaching role is understood to be based in Lahore, though Pakistan are likely to continue to play their home games in the UAE for the foreseeable future.