Pakistan Cricket Set For Major Overhaul After India Drubbing; Coach, Support Staff To Be Axed Post CT 2025

The Pakistan cricket team is facing major backlash following their disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy, particularly after their humiliating defeat to India.

As a result, the team's support staff, led by former fast bowler Aaqib Javed, is set for a major overhaul, according to a source within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Photo Credit: PTI

Pakistan suffered a six-wicket loss to arch-rivals India in Dubai on Sunday, following a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in their Champions Trophy opener in Karachi on February 19.

A well-informed PCB source revealed that Aaqib Javed will be relieved of his duties as interim head coach once the Champions Trophy concludes.

"Naturally, there is a backlash over the team's performance in the tournament. The Board has yet to decide whether there will be separate head coaches for red and white-ball cricket, but one thing is certain-the current support staff will be completely revamped after this poor showing," the source told PTI.

"However, given the Board's frequent changes in coaches and selectors over the past year, finding suitable replacements for these roles will be a challenge," he added.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had initially appointed Aaqib as the interim head coach for the white-ball team late last year following Gary Kirsten's resignation. He was later asked to take charge of the red-ball team as well for the South Africa tour and the home series against the West Indies, after Australian coach Jason Gillespie stepped down.

With Pakistan set to tour New Zealand from March 16 to April 5 for a series of five T20 Internationals and three ODIs, the PCB has now prioritised appointing a permanent head coach or coaching team.

The source explained that, due to preparations for the Champions Trophy, the Board had been unable to focus on hiring permanent coaches, but this matter will now take precedence.

"After the resignations of Kirsten and Gillespie, the PCB is unlikely to have a wide range of foreign coaches to choose from, so it is expected that the Board will consider former Pakistani players for the role," the source stated.

He further added that once Pakistan's Champions Trophy campaign concludes, Chairman Naqvi will consult with the Board of Governors regarding the future of the national selection committee.