Pakistan's fielding coach, Steve Rixon no longer wishes to continue holding the position

Steve Rixon, current fielding coach of the Pakistan cricket team decided against renewing his contract ahead of the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. With his contract expiring in June, Rixon has decided not to continue as Pakistan’s fielding coach. The 64-year-old’s final assignment as fielding coach will be their tour of Ireland and England.

According to a PCB official the former Australian wicketkeeper chose not to reestablish his agreement because of ‘personal reasons’, which included spending more time with his family. However, the contracts of the remaining members of the coaching staff will extend until the 2019 World Cup.

Rixon replaced Grant Luden as the fielding coach in 2016:

Rixon took control as Pakistan’s fielding mentor in 2016, supplanting Grant Luden along with head coach Mickey Arthur. He had likewise worked with Arthur beforehand when the pair was a crucial piece of Australia’s training staff in 2011 and 2014. Amid his stretch with Australia, he had worked at different positions, including fielding coach, spin-bowling coach, and as the assistant coach.

Since retiring from cricket, Rixon has worked with various teams. He has been part of the coach teams of New Zealand,  Aussies, New South Whales, Chennai Super Kings. He was also part of the controversial Indian Cricket League where he coached Hyderabad Heroes.

However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) hasn’t started the hunt for a new fielding coach as of now. They will have to find someone before the Zimbabwe series. It is speculated that the former fielding coach, Luden might be asked to take over, once again.

Earlier Rixon had met the PCB chairman and decided to renew his contract. Coming to terms with Najam Sethi, the PCB Chairman, he extended his contract with an increment in his salary. However, the former Aussies has now made up his mind against further extension as he is unhappy living away from his family. Under Rixon’s guidance, the fielding of the team has improved to a great extent.

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