PCB looks to appoint local coach for Pakistan white-ball team after Gary Kirsten’s exit

Following Gary Kirsten’s departure as head coach, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shifted its focus towards appointing a local coach for the national white-ball team. 

According to sources, the PCB has no plans to bring in another foreign coach and is now considering Saqlain Mushtaq and Aaqib Javed for the role.

Saqlain Mushtaq, who currently serves as a mentor with the PCB, is seen as a strong contender due to his experience and past successes with the Pakistan white-ball team. Having previously held the role of Director at the PCB’s High Performance Center for International Player Development, Saqlain brings substantial expertise, which is likely to be bolstered by the support of team captain Mohammad Rizwan. Rizwan’s endorsement could play a crucial role in securing Saqlain’s appointment.

Aaqib Javed, on the other hand, has expressed interest in a head coaching role with full authority over the team. Despite receiving past offers to serve as Pakistan’s bowling coach, Aaqib declined, expressing a preference for a more comprehensive leadership position. He has an extensive coaching background, having worked with the PSL franchise Lahore Qalandars and, more recently, the Sri Lankan national team as a bowling coach.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi will make the final decision on the appointment of a permanent white-ball team coach after consulting with all key stakeholders. For the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia, PCB has already appointed red-ball team head coach Jason Gillespie to lead the side temporarily. However, a head coach for Pakistan’s upcoming tour of Zimbabwe is yet to be finalized.