The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that former pacer and national selector Aaqib Javed will continue as the interim head coach for the upcoming white-ball tour of New Zealand. This decision comes amidst the PCB’s ongoing search for a permanent head coach, with Aaqib being asked to extend his interim role due to time constraints between the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy and the New Zealand series.
A PCB official stated, “Due to the tight schedule between the Champions Trophy and the New Zealand tour, Aaqib will continue as interim head coach. The PCB has already initiated the process of finding a new head coach for the national team, and due process will be followed.” The official added that Pakistan is expected to have a new head coach in place by the time they begin their new cycle of the World Test Championship (WTC) in August 2025.
Aaqib’s Interim Tenure
Aaqib Javed, a former Pakistan fast bowler and senior selector, was initially appointed as the interim head coach for the white-ball squad last year. His role was later expanded to include the red-ball team for the Test series against South Africa and the West Indies. Despite Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the three-nation event and the Champions Trophy, where the team failed to register a single win, Aaqib’s interim tenure has been extended to ensure stability during the transition period.
The PCB’s coaching setup has faced significant turbulence in recent years. Last year, the board appointed Jason Gillespie as the red-ball coach and Gary Kirsten as the white-ball coach. However, both resigned within six to eight months of their appointments, citing issues with the PCB. This led to Aaqib stepping in as a stopgap solution.
Mohammad Yousuf Appointed as Batting Coach
In addition to Aaqib’s continuation, the PCB has appointed former Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf as the national team’s batting coach. Yousuf, one of Pakistan’s most prolific batsmen, brings a wealth of experience to the role and is expected to work closely with the players to improve their batting performances, particularly in the longer formats.
New Leadership in T20Is
The PCB also confirmed the appointment of Salman Ali Agha as the T20I captain and Shadab Khan as vice-captain for the New Zealand series. This decision aligns with the board’s long-term vision, focusing on the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 (September 2025) and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (February/March 2026). Salman, who previously led Pakistan to a 2-1 series victory against Zimbabwe in 2024, has been entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the team’s future in the shortest format.
As part of their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan is set to play a minimum of five T20Is in the Asia Cup 2025, followed by three-match series against West Indies (away, July), Afghanistan (home, August), Ireland (home, September), South Africa (home, September/October), Sri Lanka (home, November), and Australia (home, January 2026).
Rizwan to Lead ODI Side
In the 50-over format, Mohammad Rizwan will continue to lead the ODI side as Pakistan builds towards the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, which will be hosted by Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe in October/November 2027.
Injury Concerns
The PCB also addressed the absence of openers Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub from the squads for the New Zealand tour. Fakhar suffered a left lower intercostal muscle sprain during Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand, while Saim is recovering from a right ankle fracture sustained during the Cape Town Test against South Africa in January. Both players are expected to be fully fit for the HBL Pakistan Super League 10, which begins in Rawalpindi on 11 April 2025.
Looking Ahead
The New Zealand tour marks a crucial phase for Pakistan cricket as the team transitions under new leadership and coaching staff. With Aaqib Javed at the helm for the interim period, the focus will be on stabilizing the team and preparing for the challenges ahead. The appointment of Salman Ali Agha and Shadab Khan as T20I captain and vice-captain, respectively, reflects the PCB’s commitment to building a competitive side for the upcoming global tournaments.
As the PCB continues its search for a permanent head coach, the performances in New Zealand will be closely watched, offering insights into the team’s progress and readiness for the future. With a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, Pakistan aims to turn the page and embark on a new chapter in international cricket.