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Misbah replaces Jones as Islamabad coach


Bangladeshpost
Published : 07 Nov 2019 06:48 PM | Updated : 07 Sep 2020 06:47 AM

Dean Jones has confirmed that he has been sacked by Islamabad United as head coach, with former captain Misbah-ul-Haq all but having replaced him. The signing of Misbah - who is also Pakistan's head coach and chief selector - has led to the five other PSL franchises raising objections, bringing up the issue of a potential conflict of interest given his multiple roles.

Jones confirmed his sacking via a video message on Twitter, where he expressed his disappointment while also recalling his stint with the team, with whom he won two titles. It is understood, however, that his removal had been on the cards for more than a year and ESPNcricinfo had reported earlier that Misbah was expected to take over.

Islamabad are yet to officially announce Misbah's appointment, but they have had him on board weeks before he signed up for the Pakistan job. It is also understood that the PCB, who had earlier promised to form a policy against holding dual jobs in the same set-up, had agreed to Misbah having multiple jobs within the same organisation.

The PCB is now facing significant pressure from the other franchises to discuss the issue. One of the possible solutions floated is to bar Misbah from participating in the selection process on the PSL draft day. Franchises have also objected Misbah's presence in the dressing room as head coach with Islamabad.

The PCB's chief executive officer Wasim Khan had earlier contended that allowing Misbah to coach at the PSL would ultimately be to "Pakistan's benefit". It is also understood that during his time in PSL he will not get a salary from the PCB for his role with the Pakistan national team.

Misbah's previous stint with Islamabad had ended on a bad note after he backtracked on his agreement to be their mentor for the 2019 edition. He was picked as a player instead and went on to play for Peshawar Zalmi. Before changing his decision, Misbah reportedly offered Islamabad his services as a player but the franchise was not keen to have him in that role.