The Pakistan cricket team’s search for a new fielding coach is set to continue even further after Australia’s Darren Berry withdrew his interest from the role due to personal and professional reasons.
The men in green have been without a fielding coach ever since Steve Rixon chose not to renew his contract which ran out in June this year. Following Rixon’s decision, the PCB had zeroed in on Berry as his replacement with the Australian’s nomination being endorsed by head coach Mickey Arthur.
Talks between Berry and the PCB were at an advanced stage with the fielding coach initially earmarked to start his tenure during Pakistan’s recent tour of Zimbabwe. However, that appointment was then postponed until the upcoming Asia Cup which will be held in the UAE.
Now, according to report by ESPNCricinfo, Berry has decided to opt out of the running although he will continue to serve as the fielding coach of Pakistan Super League defending champions Islamabad United.
Berry is currently the head coach of the Southern Redbacks.
“I’m extremely thankful for the opportunity presented by Micky Arthur and PCB,” Berry told ESPNCricinfo.
“After healthy discussions between the PCB and myself, I have decided that at this point in time with a young family that full-time international travel was a bridge too far right now. I will continue to work with Islamabad United in the PSL and will keep an open mind in relation to international coaching opportunities in the future,” he added.
A former Australia international, 48-year-old Berry currently serves as the head coach of the Southern Redbacks along with Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Adelaide Strikers.