The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former international cricketer Waqar Younis as the new white-ball head coach for the national team, officials announced Tuesday.
Younis, 53, who previously served as Pakistan’s bowling coach and head coach, will take charge ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming limited-overs series against England next month.
Selection Process
The announcement follows a comprehensive selection process where the PCB interviewed several high-profile candidates from both within Pakistan and internationally.
“We are delighted to welcome Waqar Younis back to Pakistan cricket in this critical role,” said PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi at a press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium. “His extensive experience as both a player and coach, along with his deep understanding of Pakistan cricket, makes him the ideal candidate to lead our white-ball teams forward.”
Younis has signed a two-year contract that will run through the 2027 ICC Champions Trophy, with performance reviews scheduled after major tournaments.
Coach’s Perspective
“It’s an honor to return to Pakistan cricket in this capacity,” Younis said. “Our white-ball teams have tremendous potential, and I look forward to working with the players to build consistent performances and bring success in upcoming global events.”
Dual-Coaching Strategy
The appointment comes as part of PCB’s new dual-coaching strategy, with separate specialists for the Test and limited-overs formats. The board had previously announced that the red-ball head coach position would be filled separately, with that announcement expected in the coming weeks.
Upcoming Assignments
Younis’s first assignment will be preparing the team for a five-match T20I series against England starting June 10, followed by three ODIs.
Career Background
During his illustrious playing career, Younis took 373 wickets in 87 Tests and 416 wickets in 262 ODIs for Pakistan before transitioning to coaching after retirement.
Expert Analysis
Cricket analysts have generally responded positively to the appointment, citing Younis’s tactical acumen and his ability to develop young fast bowlers as particular strengths that could benefit Pakistan’s pace-heavy white-ball attack.
The PCB has stated that Younis will work closely with team captain Babar Azam to develop a strategic vision for Pakistan’s limited-overs cricket moving forward.
