Aaqib Javed Appointed Interim White-Ball Cricket Coach for Pakistan Until March 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named former fast bowler Aaqib Javed as the interim head coach for the men’s white-ball team, a tenure set to last until March 9, 2025, aligning with the conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy hosted in Pakistan.
Javed steps into the role during a period of turbulence for Pakistan cricket, which has seen five head coaches, three PCB chairmen, and several captains change hands over the past two years. These changes have come amidst a backdrop of inconsistent performances and structural overhauls in domestic formats.
Javed replaces Jason Gillespie, who led Pakistan to a notable 2-1 ODI series win against world champions Australia but faltered with a 3-0 defeat in the subsequent T20 series. Gillespie, however, will retain his position as the red-ball head coach and oversee the upcoming two-match Test series in South Africa.
The PCB clarified that Javed’s appointment is temporary and stated, “Aaqib Javed, a former international fast bowler, is appointed as the interim head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.”
Javed also serves on the senior selection committee, which has undergone several reshuffles since Mohsin Naqvi assumed the role of PCB chairman earlier this year.
Champions Trophy in Jeopardy
The Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, faces uncertainty as India has expressed security concerns about traveling to Pakistan. India proposed a hybrid model with their matches played at a neutral venue, but the PCB has rejected this suggestion, insisting the entire tournament must be hosted in Pakistan.
Upcoming Assignments
Javed’s immediate challenge will be Pakistan’s white-ball series in Zimbabwe, comprising three ODIs and three T20Is from November 24 to December 5, followed by a tour to South Africa starting December 10. Additionally, Pakistan will host a triangular ODI series featuring New Zealand and South Africa from February 8 to 14 as preparation for the Champions Trophy.
A permanent head coach will be decided after the conclusion of the Champions Trophy. For now, Aaqib Javed’s leadership marks another chapter in Pakistan cricket’s constantly evolving saga.
