Misbah ul Haq a Leading Candidate for Pakistan’s Test Coaching Position

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has opted to relieve all mentors associated with the Champions Trophy of their duties. Former captains Misbah-ul-Haq and Sarfaraz Ahmed are set to take on substantial new roles within the organization.

Sources indicate that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi chaired a performance review session, which led to the decision to terminate the mentors’ positions.

Waqar Younis, Shoaib Malik, Saqlain Mushtaq, Misbah-ul-Haq, and Sarfaraz Ahmed have been formally relieved of their mentoring roles.

Information suggests that Misbah and Sarfaraz will remain with the PCB in significant, redefined capacities. The specifics of these roles are anticipated to be disclosed shortly.

Strategic initiatives for the national team, Shaheens, emerging talent, and youth squads have been completed.

Reportedly, Director of High Performance Aaqib Javed has presented these plans for official endorsement.

A notable infrastructural change involves relocating the biomechanics lab from a local academic institution to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore. The updated facility will feature advanced training technology and software to improve player capabilities.

The PCB also intends to activate High Performance Centers in Faisalabad and Sialkot. Sialkot will introduce programs aimed at Under-13 and Under-15 demographics, while Faisalabad will manage extended development programs for Under-17 athletes.

Multan will function as the training center for Under-19 cricketers, and a specialized facility for female cricketers is planned for Karachi.

In addition, a carefully selected group of 30 to 35 players will participate in high-performance training at the NCA to strengthen the national team’s reserves.

A separate plan has been developed to prepare for the forthcoming Test series. However, the PCB is proceeding cautiously and not immediately naming a head coach for Test cricket. Several individuals, including Misbah-ul-Haq, are reportedly being considered for the position.