Pakistan Cricket Board Eyes Fresh Leadership Amid Strategic Shift
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally launched a search to recruit a full-time head coach for the national team, signaling a key transition ahead of major international fixtures.
In a public job posting on its website, the board has outlined strict eligibility requirements for applicants. Candidates must possess at least a Level III coaching certification and hold a decade-long record of coaching at either the national or high-level domestic level. This recruitment drive follows interim coach Aaqib Javed’s reported decision to step away from the permanent coaching race.
The Aaqib Javed Chapter
Aaqib Javed, the former fast bowler, had stepped into the white-ball interim coaching role last November after Gary Kirsten abruptly stepped down just before the Australia tour. The following month, Javed was promoted to interim coach across all formats when Jason Gillespie also resigned due to internal disagreements with the board.
Although his term was initially set to wrap up with the conclusion of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB extended his responsibilities to cover Pakistan’s recent white-ball tour of New Zealand. Now, however, the board appears set on closing this chapter.
Sources reveal that while Javed may not continue as head coach, he could still be part of the broader cricketing framework. He is reportedly interested in taking up the position of Director of the High-Performance Centre—a vacancy created by Nadeem Khan’s resignation. The PCB has also posted an advertisement for this role, indicating their intent to fill it soon.
Foreign Coach Likely in Focus
Insiders suggest that the PCB is dealing with a limited pool of local candidates and is, therefore, more inclined toward appointing a foreign coach. Despite the PCB’s past inclination to bring in big-name personalities, this time the focus seems to be on practical and long-term solutions rather than glamour appointments.
Naqvi Confirms Women’s Team Will Not Travel to India
Meanwhile, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has taken a firm stance regarding the participation of the national women’s cricket team in the ICC Women’s World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by India later this year.
Speaking during his visit to the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground, where he met with the women’s squad following their stellar showing in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, Naqvi stated that Pakistan will not be traveling to India. He referenced the ‘Fusion Formula,’ previously established before the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, as the basis for this decision.
“Our position remains unchanged. We will not be sending our women’s team to India,” Naqvi emphasized. When probed about playing at neutral venues, he remarked that such a call would be at the discretion of the tournament’s hosts, but stressed that Pakistan’s position is non-negotiable.
Pakistan Women’s team, captained by Fatima Sana, has had a phenomenal run in the qualifiers—remaining undefeated and securing a slot in the World Cup. Their campaign included a commanding 87-run win over Thailand and a concluding seven-wicket triumph over Bangladesh.
Naqvi lauded the squad’s unity and performance, promising tangible rewards for their efforts. “They played like a true team, and their success is a result of that synergy. They’ll absolutely be rewarded. They’ve earned it,” he concluded.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – For Pakistani Readers
1. Why is the PCB searching for a new head coach now?
The board is looking for a permanent head coach to ensure continuity and stability after Aaqib Javed’s interim tenure, which was only meant to cover specific series.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the head coach role?
Applicants must have a Level III coaching certification and at least 10 years of experience coaching domestic or national teams.
3. Is Aaqib Javed completely leaving the PCB setup?
Not necessarily. He may still be part of the cricket board’s structure and is reportedly eyeing the position of Director of the High-Performance Centre.
4. Why won’t the women’s team travel to India for the World Cup?
The PCB is following the ‘Fusion Formula’ policy, which outlines non-participation in Indian-hosted events due to ongoing diplomatic tensions.
5. Is a foreign coach likely to be appointed?
Yes, sources suggest that due to a shortage of experienced local candidates, the PCB may prefer hiring a foreign coach with international exposure.
