The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed Tim Nielsen from his position as assistant coach in preparation for the upcoming Test series in South Africa, scheduled to begin on December 26.

The PCB’s decision not to renew Nielsen’s contract has prompted Pakistan’s Test head coach, Jason Gillespie, to reconsider his own role within the team. Nielsen, who took on the role of high-performance red-ball coach in August, saw his short-term contract conclude following Pakistan’s tour of Australia, which was managed by Gillespie.

Despite Nielsen’s hopes for an extension and his belief in the team’s progress, he was informed that his services would no longer be required. Reports suggested that Gillespie was surprised by the PCB’s decision, as he was not consulted prior to Nielsen’s termination.

Gillespie has faced several challenges in recent months, including his removal from the Test selection panel in October, which reduced his responsibilities to that of a matchday strategist.

Communication with the PCB has reportedly been minimal, especially following Pakistan’s white-ball series in Australia, during which Gillespie acted as interim coach after Gary Kirsten’s resignation.

Gillespie has publicly recognized Nielsen’s strong rapport with the players as a valuable asset to the team. Both coaches believe that Nielsen’s non-resident status in Pakistan may have contributed to the decision not to extend his contract. Nielsen had confirmed his availability for the tours to South Africa and the West Indies, which has reportedly upset Gillespie.

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The PCB has not yet announced a replacement for Nielsen, but recent trends indicate a preference for local coaching staff. This shift in policy was also evident in Gary Kirsten’s departure, who resigned in October amid concerns regarding his time spent outside of Pakistan.