According to recent media reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering appointing Mickey Arthur as the “online head coach” of the national cricket team — a move that has raised eyebrows in the cricketing community.
One former cricketer, who wished to remain anonymous to avoid risking his PCB pension, joked that if the trend continues, perhaps India and Pakistan could even arrange an online cricket series someday. In his words: “Babar Azam could play on one side, Virat Kohli on the other — all from their own homes.”
From “Online Coach” to Team Director
The latest update reveals that Arthur is more likely to be appointed Team Director rather than an online coach. Interestingly, he plans to continue his existing role with English county side Derbyshire while working with the Pakistan team — effectively juggling two high-profile jobs.
Critics argue that coaching cricket is not like playing Ludo online — it requires a constant on-ground presence to address issues in real-time. Net sessions, tactical adjustments during matches, and direct player interaction are all crucial.
PCB’s Changing Faces and Loyalty Choices
In Pakistan cricket, a change in PCB leadership often results in a complete reshuffle of key positions. Even before officially becoming chairman again, Najam Sethi has reportedly started assigning roles to people he personally trusts. He appears convinced that no coach in the world is better suited for Pakistan cricket than Mickey Arthur.
However, Arthur is unwilling to terminate his Derbyshire contract, preferring to split his time between county cricket and Pakistan’s national team. Other foreign coaches reportedly turned down PCB’s offer after hearing the proposed compensation package.
Practical Concerns and ICC Rules
If Arthur is coaching online during a live Pakistan match, how exactly will he communicate with the players? More importantly, would the ICC’s anti-corruption unit even allow such direct in-game contact via television and online platforms?
If PCB insists on online coaching, experts suggest considering big names like Andy Flower or Tom Moody, who could potentially hold remote sessions when free from franchise cricket duties.
Financial Motives or Commitment?
Critics believe Arthur is attempting to “sail in two boats” — collecting pounds from Derbyshire while also earning in dollars from Pakistan. The call from former players is clear: If Arthur truly prioritizes Pakistan cricket, he should commit fully and be present with the team for every series.
The Local Coaching Option
Many experts believe PCB should pair a foreign coach with a local deputy. This would bridge language barriers, help players who struggle with English, and develop homegrown coaching talent. As former stars Shahid Afridi and Aqib Javed have pointed out, complex coaching instructions are already difficult to grasp in person — making them even harder in an online setup.
Azhar Mahmood, who has significant coaching experience, is seen as a strong local candidate. With the ODI World Cup year underway, Pakistan cannot afford experimental ideas that could backfire.
PCB should make a clear choice: If Mickey Arthur can commit fully, welcome him. If not, abandon the online coaching plan and look for other capable options. With many experienced coaches visiting Pakistan for the PSL, the opportunities are there — it’s just a matter of making a smart, timely decision