(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Umar Gul Likely to Be Named Head Coach of Pakistan Shaheens Ahead of Busy Season
The Pakistan Shaheens are preparing for an action-packed international season with back-to-back tours of Australia and England, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to bring in a familiar face to lead the charge. Former fast bowler Umar Gul is expected to be appointed as head coach of the Shaheens ahead of their upcoming assignments.
🏏 A New Chapter for Umar Gul
The 42-year-old brings a wealth of experience, both on and off the field. Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, Umar Gul has made impressive strides in coaching. His resume includes roles as bowling coach for the Quetta Gladiators (PSL), Afghanistan’s national team, and the Pakistan senior men’s team.
He notably stepped in as Pakistan’s bowling coach after Morne Morkel’s departure, working with the team during the Test series against Australia (2023) and the T20I series against New Zealand (2024).
🔄 Recent Coaching Reshuffle
The PCB’s coaching staff has seen several changes recently:
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Shane McDermott (Australia) has taken over as Fielding Coach, replacing Mohammad Masroor.
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Grant Luden returns as the Strength and Conditioning Coach, a position he previously held.
These changes are part of a broader effort to strengthen support staff ahead of a crucial season for Pakistan cricket.
🌏 Shaheens to Compete in 2025 Top End T20 Series
The Pakistan Shaheens are set to make their third straight appearance in the Top End T20 Series, scheduled for August 14–24, 2025, in Darwin, Australia.
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The team will open the tournament against Bangladesh ‘A’ at TIO Stadium.
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The event features 11 teams and 36 T20 matches across five venues.
The Shaheens have delivered strong performances in past editions:
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Finalists in 2023
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Semi-finalists in 2024
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Key wins against sides like the Perth Scorchers, Melbourne Renegades, Tasmania, and Bangladesh ‘A’
🏆 Looking Ahead
Following the Australia tour, the Shaheens will also travel to England later this year as part of their ongoing development and exposure at the international level. With a new head coach likely to be in place, the team is aiming to build momentum and develop future stars for Pakistan’s senior side.
Stay tuned for official confirmation of Umar Gul’s appointment and squad announcements in the coming days.
