The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has made two key additions to its coaching staff as the team gears up for their upcoming home Test series against Zimbabwe later this month. Former Pakistan cricketer Arshad Khan has reportedly been appointed as the team’s new spin bowling coach, while seasoned New Zealand coach James Pamment has been named as the fielding coach of the senior men’s side.
The appointments, which may precede more changes, come as part of BCB’s efforts to bolster their backroom staff ahead of a crucial period in Bangladesh cricket, with the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 also firmly in their long-term plans.
Arshad Khan, a former Pakistan international known for his off-spin and solid presence in the middle order during his playing days, will take charge of developing Bangladesh’s spin resources—a department that has traditionally been a strength for the Tigers in home conditions.
With a wealth of experience both on the field and in coaching roles post-retirement, Arshad’s arrival is expected to provide valuable guidance to the likes of Taijul Islam, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Rishad Hossain as Bangladesh continues to build a formidable spin attack across formats.
Arshad Khan played 9 Tests and 58 ODIs for the Green Shirts from 1997 to 2006 before transitioning into coaching roles. After a brief stint with the Pakistan women’s team, he now finds himself in the highest role yet.
Meanwhile, James Pamment joins Arshad Khan as the latest addition to Bangladesh’s coaching setup. The 56-year-old New Zealander, who spent five years as assistant coach of IPL giants Mumbai Indians, has signed a contract that will see him remain with the Bangladesh team until the conclusion of the 2027 World Cup.
Pamment, who has also worked with New Zealand Cricket in various coaching roles, has a coaching CV that includes time as head coach of Northern Districts in New Zealand, as well as roles with New Zealand A, the Under-19s, and even a brief stint with the United States national team.
The duo of Arshad Khan and James Pamment will likely link up with the Bangladesh squad ahead of their two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, which begins on April 20 in Sylhet.
For Bangladesh, these coaching appointments are part of a broader vision to fine-tune their skill sets and build a competitive unit across all departments. The Tigers will be hoping that this injection of experience behind the scenes pays dividends in the coming years—starting with the home series against Zimbabwe.