Saqlain front runner for head coach job as major overhaul expected in PCB

ISLAMABAD: In an effort to revive the national cricket setup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is gearing up for a significant overhaul at the cricket operations.

Former head coach and legendary spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has emerged as the leading candidate to assume the role of head coach of the national cricket team, while former fast bowler Aaqib Javed appears poised to take over as the Director of High Performance -- a post left vacant following the resignation of Nadeem Khan.

The changes come in the wake of interim coach Aaqib Javed’s decision to step aside from coaching duties, citing personal constraints and a preference for a more settled, off-field role. This development has prompted the PCB to initiate a formal search for a full-time head coach. However, the Board’s ambition to recruit a high-profile foreign coach appears increasingly difficult to relish.

Although the PCB initially aimed to bring in globally renowned figures such as Andy Flower and Mike Hesson, scheduling conflicts and their commitments to various franchise leagues around the world have made full-time availability a major obstacle.

Moreover, past experiences with foreign coaches -- including the premature departures of Jason Gillespie, Gary Kirsten, and in recent times, Mickey Arthur -- have made the board wary of repeating history.

The revolving door of overseas coaching talent has raised serious concerns about the long-term sustainability of such appointments. As a result, the PCB is now turning its attention inward, with Saqlain Mushtaq and Misbah-ul-Haq emerging as top local contenders.

Among the two, Saqlain is believed to be the more suitable option, having previously served a successful stint with the national side, earning respect from players and administrators alike for his tactical acumen and calm leadership style. Misbah, although a strong figure in Pakistan cricket, carries the baggage of a turbulent coaching tenure which might weigh against him in the selection process.

In an interesting development, there have also been whispers about the possible involvement of Sarfaraz Ahmed in a coaching or mentoring role, although this would necessitate his formal retirement from international cricket -- a step he has not yet taken. Meanwhile, Aaqib Javed -- a seasoned coach with a track record in grooming young talent -- is expected to transition into a more stable role as the Director of High Performance.

Sources indicate that Javed, having expressed his desire to work in a strategic and development-oriented position rather endure the round-the-clock demands of coaching at the international level, finds the High Performance post a better fit.

With Bangladesh scheduled to tour Pakistan in late May for a five-match T20I series, the PCB is under pressure to finalize its leadership structure swiftly. The board aims to have both the head coach and the performance director in place well before the first ball is bowled, ensuring continuity and clarity in vision for the months ahead.

This moment marks a critical juncture for Pakistan cricket. As the PCB deliberates on its next move, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether a return to trusted local leadership will bring the stability and success the national side so desperately needs.