After Gary Kirsten’s early resignation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly close to appointing a new white-ball coach for the national team.
Having realized that its preferred international options may not work out, the PCB is said to have shifted focus away from foreign coaches and is now considering local candidates. Two names have been shortlisted: former off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq and former fast bowler Aaqib Javed.
Saqlain is currently seen as the frontrunner, owing to his previous experience with the national squad and his role at the PCB’s High-Performance Center for International Player Development. He is also believed to have the backing of newly appointed captain Mohammad Rizwan.
Aaqib, meanwhile, brings strong credentials of his own. A member of the current selection committee, he played a key role in Pakistan’s first home Test series win in over three years. He has also guided Lahore Qalandars to two PSL titles and is reportedly eager to add the coaching role to his portfolio.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to finalize and announce the appointment following consultations with key stakeholders.
