PCB, Woolmer on collision course, again

KARACHI: The uneasy relationship between the Pakistan Cricket Board and coach Bob Woolmer was highlighted again on Sunday with some of its officials questioning the authority of the foreign coach.

Sources in the Board said PCB was not happy at Woolmer’s repeated insistence that the suppliers of the team clothing and kits should get their material and work done in his adopted country, South Africa. When Slazenger, the official suppliers of kits, informed the Board that Woolmer was insisting that they get their stuff made in South Africa, the PCB officials reacted strongly.

There have been allegations that he is keen to promote South Africa in every possible manner. Since he took over as coach, the two trainers and the physiotherapist with the senior team and National Cricket Academy were all hired from South Africa. A couple of times Woolmer has also recommended that injured players be sent to South Africa for tests and treatment.Woolmer’s contract is till the World Cup and speculation is rife that he would be shown the door after the event.