Former captain Younis Khan expected to take over red-ball coaching role as Pakistan cricket management undergoes restructuring
Pakistan cricket is reportedly set for another major shake-up, with former captain Younis Khan expected to replace Sarfaraz Ahmed as the national Test team head coach, according to sources familiar with the development.
The potential changes come amid ongoing restructuring within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), following a series of disappointing Test performances and internal reviews of the team’s recent results.
Coaching Change After Poor Test Results
Sarfaraz Ahmed, who famously led Pakistan to victory in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy in 2017, was appointed as Test head coach in April this year. His first assignment in the role came during a two-match away Test series against Bangladesh, which was part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
However, Pakistan suffered a 2–0 series whitewash in that series, marking their second consecutive Test series defeat against Bangladesh. The results reportedly triggered concerns within cricketing circles about the team’s direction in the longest format of the game.
Following these back-to-back losses, discussions emerged within the PCB regarding possible leadership changes in both coaching and captaincy roles.
Younis Khan’s Expected Return in Dual Role
Sources indicate that Younis Khan, one of Pakistan’s most respected Test batsmen and former national captain, is the leading candidate to take over as Test head coach.
Younis, who famously led Pakistan to their maiden ICC T20 World Cup title in 2009, is also expected to play a broader role in the national setup. Reports suggest he may be included in the national men’s selection committee as part of the restructuring plan.
The proposed move reflects the PCB’s intent to bring experienced former cricketers into key decision-making positions in order to stabilize long-term team performance.
Changes in Team Management Structure
Alongside coaching changes, further adjustments are reportedly being considered in Pakistan’s leadership group. According to insiders, Test captain Shan Masood could be replaced, with all-rounder Salman Ali Agha being considered as a potential successor.
Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Ahmed is expected to continue contributing to the development of Pakistan Shaheens, the country’s second-tier national side, focusing on nurturing emerging talent.
Mohammad Hafeez Likely for Key Administrative Role
In another significant development, former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez is likely to be appointed as Director of International Cricket, a position that has remained vacant since the suspension of Usman Wahla in September last year.
Hafeez, who has represented Pakistan across all three formats, is also expected to take on a dual role, potentially joining the national selection committee alongside figures such as Aqib Javed, Misbah-ul-Haq, Asad Shafiq, and Sarfaraz Ahmed.
PCB’s Broader Restructuring Strategy
The proposed changes reflect a wider effort by the PCB to rebuild Pakistan cricket following inconsistent performances in Test cricket. By involving former international players in both coaching and administrative roles, the board appears to be aiming for greater stability, experience-driven decision-making, and long-term planning.
However, no official confirmation has yet been issued by the PCB regarding these appointments, and final decisions are expected after internal consultations are completed.
