Former Pakistan captain Misbahul Haq has emerged as the top contender for the vacant head coach position of the Men in Green.

According to sources, Misbah, who is also a member of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)’s Cricket Committee, will replace former Head Coach Mickey Arthur after the board decided against renewing the latter’s contract.

Sources also stated that the new head coach will be appointed for a period of four years, till the 2023 International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup, although there will be yearly evaluation to assess the performance of the coach.  

Misbah, who represented Pakistan in 75 Tests, 162 ODIs and 39 T20Is, is considered capable enough to serve as the national side’s head coach by the Ehsan Mani-led administration. The former cricketer took over the reins as Pakistan captain, after the infamous spot-fixing scandal in 2010, and brought the country’s cricket out of turmoil through his astute leadership.

Arthur removed as PCB looks to revamp coaching setup

As part of the recruitment process, the PCB will first advertise for this role and will invite high level applications from interested candidates. If the process leads to better alternative for head coach’s spot, Misbah’s services can also be used for the batting coach’s role. 

Sources further stated that former Pakistan fast-bowler Mohammad Akram is likely to take over as the bowling coach of the side. It must be noted that Akram is the current head coach of Habib Bank Limited (HBL) Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Peshawar Zalmi. The 44-year-old was also appointed for the same role, back in 2012 as well.