Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) Rawalpindi franchise, widely known as Pindiz, announced on March 13, a high-profile coaching arrangement in advance for the PSL 11, a perfect mix of international and local experience.
The franchise announced former South African all-rounder Justin Kemp as the head coach while West Indies fast-bowling hero Courtney Walsh will act as bowling coach.
The backroom structure will also have Pakistani great Inzamam-ul-Haq as the president and mentor. Former Pakistan spinner Abdur Rehman has been named as head of strategy.
Kemp, who was a former middle-order all-rounder for South Africa, has made a good reputation in coaching since his retirement from professional.
He has worked in a domestic and franchise setting and has taken roles which are based around player development and tactical planning as well as modern T20 preparation roles.
His experience in handling squads and developing match strategies are expected to assist Pindiz in creating a competition structure in their first season of the PSL.
Alongside him, the appointment of Walsh brings one of cricket’s most respected fast bowling minds into the set up.
Widely regarded as one of the game’s legendary pacers, Walsh will be able to add firepower to the team’s bowling unit with his technical expertise and experience.
His guidance could prove to be particularly worthwhile in crucial T20 phases like the powerplay and the death overs which could often be the deciding factors in important matches.
Walsh’s arrival has also spurred excitement due to the pace options in the franchise. The opportunity of a potential fast bowling great working alongside Pakistan quicks such as Naseem Shah and Mohammad Amir is being seen as a huge advantage.
Many expect his mentorship to help them plan, be consistent and aware of matches in different situations.
PSL 11 will also be a historic event for the Pakistan Super League as it is now growing to eight teams.
Pindiz are one of the two new entrants and seems to be ready to make an immediate impression instead of easing slowly into the competition.
Also read: PSL 11: Rawalpindi franchise announces team’s name
