LAHORE: Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan is being considered as a strong candidate to replace Sarfaraz Ahmed as the head coach of the national Test team, according to reports.
It is believed that Sarfaraz Ahmed, who took over the post of Test head coach in April this year, might lose the job owing to poor performance.
Sarfaraz started off his tenure with the Test series against Bangladesh. Pakistan lost 2-0 in the series, which came in for heavy criticism by fans and supporters of the team. Moreover, the Test side lost to Bangladesh in a home series against them, further putting pressure on the coaching staff.
As per sources, Younis Khan is seen as the strongest prospect for the role, whereas Sarfaraz Ahmed will possibly remain involved in some other capacity with the Pakistan Shaheens.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to announce any change in its coaching structure.
It is worth noting that former cricketer Ahmed Shehzad had previously criticized Sarfaraz Ahmed’s selection as Test head coach due to lack of experience in the field.
ICC Approves Major Changes to Cricket Rules
Earlier, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved changes to the rules of cricket during a recent board meeting, officials confirmed.
The decisions were made during the ICC Board meeting held in Ahmedabad, India, covering updates to cricket laws, women’s cricket and issues related to Cricket Canada.
Under the new regulations, a pink ball can now be used in Test matches in conditions of poor lighting. For illegal bowling actions, Hawk-Eye technology will be employed. Additionally, coaches will be allowed to enter the field during water breaks in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) to consult with players.
The board also decided to reduce innings breaks in T20 matches from 20 minutes to 15 minutes, while the trial law allowing league-style wide deliveries has been permanently adopted.
In a separate decision, the ICC suspended Canada’s membership in the ICC, although Canadian teams will continue to participate in international competitions.
Regarding women’s cricket, the Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 has been rescheduled to take place from 14 to 28 February, instead of the previously planned June–July window.
