Mohammad Hafeez is set to take on the dual role of head coach and team director for the Pakistan cricket team during their upcoming tours of Australia and New Zealand, in sports news cricket.
This decision follows a reorganization triggered by Babar Azam’s resignation as Pakistan captain. Hafeez, 43, who was appointed team director earlier, will now assume the additional responsibility of head coach for three Test matches in Australia and five T20Is in New Zealand, scheduled for December and January.
This move marks a notable promotion for Hafeez, a former Pakistan all-rounder who last played for the national team two years ago and lacks prior coaching experience. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to merge the roles of team director and head coach, deeming the two positions redundant. The current administration views this consolidation as a streamlined approach, eliminating the need for distinct roles in the coaching setup.
Hafeez to take over Mickey Arthur as Pakistan Head Coach for the upcoming Australia tour
The decision comes after a period of upheaval in Pakistan cricket. Babar Azam’s resignation from captaincy in all three formats paved the way for significant changes in leadership roles. Shan Masood was appointed Test captain, and Shaheen Afridi assumed the role of T20I captain. Former head coach Mickey Arthur and Grant Bradburn saw their roles reduced, with Hafeez initially designated as team director.
The PCB management committee announced that Arthur and Bradburn would be “reassigned,” with no clear indication of their specific roles. Hafeez’s expanded role as head coach now completes the coaching structure, although the position of chief selector remains vacant, with Wahab Riaz reportedly in contention.
Pakistan is scheduled to depart for Australia on November 30, with a warm-up game against the Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval from December 6 to 9. The first Test in Perth is set to begin on December 14, followed by a series of five T20Is in New Zealand.
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