Pakistan’s legendary off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq, is expected to become the head coach of the national cricket team. This comes after Pakistan’s disappointing ICC Champions Trophy campaign, where the hosts failed to register a single win and got knocked out early from the semifinal contention as well. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is eager to stabilise the team and wants to sack the current coach Aaqib Javed.
Saqlain to join as head coach before New Zealand series
According to sources by Pakistani media, Saqlain has agreed to take on the role after discussions with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. He is set to start his new responsibilities before Pakistan’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. The team will play five T20Is and three ODIs from March 16 to April 5. Saqlain was initially approached for the job before the Champions Trophy, but he had concerns about team selection, especially regarding all-rounder Shadab Khan.
Saqlain’s praise for India
Recently, after Pakistan’s poor performance, Mushtq has praised India, but at the same time he has also said that based on one match you can’t say that they are better than Pakistan. “If we keep political things aside, their (Indian) players are very good, and they have been playing good cricket. If you are really a good team, I think let’s play 10 Tests, 10 ODIs, and 10 T20Is against Pakistan, then everything would become clear,” he said.
Saqlain Mushtaq’s previous experience
Saqlain will be joining the team again, as he has previously served as the head coach of the team. Back in 2021, after Misbah-ul-Haq’s resignation, the PCB appointed him as the interim head coach of the Pakistan national cricket team. Due to the team’s impressive performance under his leadership, his contract was extended for a year in February 2022. Saqlain has also served as a consultant for the England Cricket Team back in 2016.
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Expectations from Saqlain Mushtaq
During the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan’s performance was poor, as they didn’t win any games. With questions over the form of senior players, the PCB is considering adding new talent to the squad for the New Zealand tour. Saqlain’s knowledge of spin bowling, along with his past coaching experience, is hoped to help the team rebuild.
An official announcement about Saqlain’s appointment is expected soon. The PCB wants to have the coaching team ready before Pakistan leaves for New Zealand on March 12. This move aims to get the team back on track and prepare them well for future events like the 2026 T20 World Cup.
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