Mickey Arthur wants to take Pakistan to the top of world cricket

Mickey Arthur has consented to come back as the team director of Pakistan, a position that will be performed from a distance while he continues as the head coach of Derbyshire.

The Pakistan Cricket Board have been pursuing Arthur for several months, at one stage appearing to move on when it became clear that he would not be leaving the county and then agreeing a looser consultancy arrangement with the South African.

But he has now agreed to take a more hands on role with the side he led between 2016 and 2019, overseeing strategy and player identification from a distance before linking up in person as part of the coaching staff for this autumn's World Cup and subsequent series against Australia and the West Indies.

"It's no secret that I loved my first stint with Pakistan and I'm delighted to be working with the PCB again, but I want to reaffirm my commitment to Derbyshire," he said.

"Our project is one I am determined to see through and I will be giving my all to ensure we remain on the right path. My role with Derbyshire allows me to undertake work and do coaching outside of the English season, and the opportunity to lead Pakistan in all formats means that I can help their national game, while also taking learnings back to the club."

Speaking at a press conference in Rawalpindi, Arthur suggested that scepticism over the viability of his role was unfounded and his existing relationships within the Pakistan set-up would him to deliver on some bold ambitions.

"First of all there's no such thing as an online coach. I have a very emotional attachment to this cricket team and to this country," he said.

"You build relationships with players and over the last five years I've watched virtually every game Pakistan has played on TV. I know these players backwards.

"I know what they need and what they require to be successful. I've got incredible support staff, they are trustworthy, very honourable and very good cricket coaches. Under my guidance these players are going to get the best coaching available.

"I'm giving them a very clear path and direction. The talent in that dressing room is second to none. We've got the talent to win the World Cup and we've got the talent to be number one in all formats."

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