Sarfaraz Ahmed Named Pakistan Test Coach as PCB Announces New Coaching Structure
Sarfaraz Ahmed appointed Pakistan Test head coach ahead of Bangladesh series starting May 8.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed as the new head coach of the men’s Test team, marking his first major coaching role at the senior international level. The decision comes as part of a broader restructuring of Pakistan’s red-ball setup ahead of their upcoming Test assignments.
Sarfaraz Ahmed, who represented Pakistan from 2007 to 2023, will be assisted by two of his former teammates. Asad Shafiq has been named batting coach, while Umar Gul will take charge as bowling coach. The trio is expected to work closely in shaping a refreshed Test strategy for the national side.
Sarfaraz’s appointment follows the conclusion of Azhar Mahmood’s tenure as head coach last December. The 38-year-old brings significant leadership experience to the role, having captained Pakistan to one of their most memorable victories—the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final win over India at Lord’s. Across his playing career, he featured in 54 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 61 T20 Internationals.
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The new coaching structure arrives ahead of Pakistan’s two-match Test series against Bangladesh scheduled for next month. The first Test will be played from May 8 to May 12 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, followed by the second Test from May 16 to May 20 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
In their last Test tour of Bangladesh in 2024, Pakistan suffered a disappointing 2-0 series defeat, a result that adds pressure on the new coaching unit to deliver improved performances. The PCB has also announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming series, led by Shan Masood.
The squad includes the return of experienced fast bowler Mohammad Abbas and the introduction of four uncapped players—Abdullah Fazal, Azan Awais, Ghazi Ghori, and Amad Butt. Several changes have been made from the previous squad, with players such as Asif Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Abdullah Shafique, Kamran Ghulam, and Rohail Nazir being left out. The updated lineup signals a transition phase for Pakistan as they prepare for a crucial Test season under new leadership.
Also Read: Pakistan Cricket Board Names Sarfaraz Ahmed Head Coach, Announces Bangladesh Test Squad
