Umar Gul set for key role as PCB restructures coaching setup

Former Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul is expected to take up a major role in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) setup as part of the board’s wider plans to restructure its coaching and development departments.

According to sources, Gul is likely to be named head coach of the Pakistan Shaheens, who have a packed schedule ahead. The team is set to participate in the Top End T20 Series in Darwin next month, followed by a tour of England later this year.

The 42-year-old retired from international cricket in 2020 and has since built a strong coaching resume. He has previously served as the bowling coach of Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Afghanistan’s national team, and Pakistan’s senior men’s side.

Gul stepped in as Pakistan’s bowling coach after Morne Morkel’s departure and worked with the national team during the Test series against Australia in late 2023 and the T20I series against New Zealand in early 2024. He also held the same role during Pakistan’s 2023 T20I series against Afghanistan and New Zealand.

In another key development, Mohammad Masroor has stepped down from his role as fielding coach. He is likely to be replaced by Australian coach Shane McDermott, who brings with him international experience from previous stints with Australia, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka

The PCB is also likely to confirm the return of Grant Luden as the Strength and Conditioning Coach. Luden is well-versed with the team’s fitness needs, having served in the role before.

Meanwhile, the PCB has announced that Pakistan Shaheens will return to Darwin for the 2025 Top End T20 Series, marking their third straight appearance in the tournament. The event will run from August 14 to 24, with the Shaheens facing Bangladesh ‘A’ in the opening match at TIO Stadium.

The 2025 edition will feature 11 teams playing 36 T20 matches across five venues: DXC Arena, TIO Stadium, Gardens Oval, Cazaly’s Arena, and Freds Pass. More details about the tournament are expected to be announced soon.

In previous editions, the Shaheens have performed well, reaching the final in 2023 and the semi-final in 2024. Their campaign included notable wins against teams like Perth Scorchers, Tasmania, Melbourne Renegades, and Bangladesh ‘A’. However, their run ended in the semi-finals after a loss to Adelaide Strikers.