ISLAMABAD: As the deadline to apply for the prestigious role of head coach of the national cricket team expired on May 4, domestic and international aspirants have shown their interest.
A significant number of seasoned local professionals -- and some foreign candidates -- have submitted their applications for the coveted position.
The vacancy arose after interim head coach Aaqib Javed stepped down to pursue a more stable and long-term coaching opportunity. Since then, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been actively engaged in identifying a successor capable of steering the national team through its next phase of development.
According to the sources within the PCB, the formal scrutiny of the applications will commence today (Monday). “We’ve received a considerable number of applications, but only those meeting our rigorous selection criteria will move to the next stage,” a senior PCB official told ‘The News’. “It is not necessary that every applicant will be interviewed. We will first initiate the shortlisting process and then forward the most suitable names to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for further consideration.”
Naqvi, who is currently abroad, is expected to review the reduced list upon his return. The PCB source has made it clear that only candidates meeting the benchmark set by the board will be considered for the final round.
Interestingly, several local coaches -- currently engaged in domestic assignments -- and a few of the board’s own appointed team mentors have also expressed their intent to step into the head coach role.
While the mentor program was introduced with considerable promise, its long-term future now appears uncertain, making the head coach position an increasingly attractive and secure alternative for those currently in mentorship roles.
The PCB’s first preference, as per insiders, remains to bring on board a globally recognized foreign coach with a proven track record. However, this goal has proven difficult. Many high-profile international coaches have shown limited interest in the role, with some reportedly presenting terms and conditions that the PCB may find difficult to accommodate.
In light of these challenges, momentum appears to be building around a handful of experienced local candidates -- particularly those mentors already working closely with the national team setup. Their familiarity with the players, conditions, and the board’s vision could provide them with a strategic edge during the final selection process. With the clock ticking and the scrutiny set to begin, all eyes are now on the PCB’s next move -- will it be a bold international signing, or a calculated and familiar choice from within?
