Mudassar succeeds to get long-term contract

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has accepted Mudassar Nazar'sdemands and has agreed to appoint him as Pakistan coach until the 2003 World Cup, sources said.

The agreement reached between the PCB and Mudassar Saturday following discussions between the two parties. The former Test opener was Friday given an extension until March.

"Mudassar has been awarded the coaching assignment until the World Cup," sources said, adding an official announcement would be made Monday. However, a spokesman of the PCB said deliberations were still in progress.

"Mudassar met the PCB chairman and has asked for a long-term contract. Discussions are still in progress and an official announcement in expected Monday," a PCB spokesman said.

Mudassar's appointment means England-born and South Africabased Richard Pybus became history following his demand for more authority, besides asking the PCB to work on professional lines.

Under the new agreement between the PCB and Mudassar, The Man with the Golden Arm will look after the Pakistan team only and will have no additional responsibilities at the national academy. He, however, will continue to assist local coaches besides passing on valuable tips to the youngsters off and on.

"His focus of attention has to be the Pakistan cricket team. After preparation schedule for the World Cup this year went out of the window because of situation beyond PCB's control, the administration wants to utilize every opportunity next year in giving final touches to the squad. "This means Mudassar will have to focus on the team and chalk out his own strategy, team planning and training schedule," sources said.

Mudassar had demanded a contract until the World Cup, arguing that it would be in injustice to the team if he was given an extension until March only.

Mudassar's initial contract with the PCB expires Jan 31.