Former Pakistan batting coach Younis Khan has clarified that his recent spat with fast bowler Hasan Ali was not behind his decision to step down from the post. He also said that what happened between him and Ali during the South Africa tour was a ‘heat of the moment’ thing and it is something that is common for touring sides.

Khan parted ways with the Pakistan Cricket Board earlier this month and there have been speculations about the reason behingd his resignation ever since. Khan, who is one of the most prolific batsment the country has ever produced, was appointed the batting coach on June 9 last year. 

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According to reports, Khan had a heated altercation with Ali after the latter refused an ice bath he had suggested during the tour of South Africa. The 43-year-old has now confirmed that incident has nothing to do with his resignation. 

He also said he wouldn’t like to bring Ali into the discussion as he was still on tour and these things tend to distract players. 

“I don’t know how this thing came in media and got hype. It was the heat of the moment and it is normal on tours. I don’t think there is any need to give this issue a hype as Hasan is currently on national duty and this controversy can divert his mind,” India Today quoted the former batsman telling ARY News. 

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He also confirmed that the agreement between him and PCB prevented him from revealing any details about his resignation for at least six months. 

“See, I and PCB had a contract in which it was mentioned that after we part ways, we will not discuss anything on it for the next six months. So, I don’t know whether to disclose the reason behind my resignation but to be very frank, it has nothing to do with the Hasan incident which was leaked despite a contract in place,” he added. 

Khan, who is Pakistan leading run-scorer in Test cricket, also said he enjoys good relations with the current PCB management. 

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“I have good relations with Ehsan Mani and Wasim Khan and we often remain in touch on cricket matters. I always try to suggest them on different matters as in the end, it is all about Pakistan’s cricket.”