The Pakistan Shaheens are gearing up for a demanding international season, with tours to Australia and England on the horizon.
As the team prepares, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is looking to appoint former Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul as head coach of the Pakistan Shaheens.
Gul’s appointment comes at a crucial time, with the Shaheens preparing for a busy international schedule, including the Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia next month, followed by a tour of England later this year.
The 42-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the role. Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, he has built a strong coaching profile, having served as bowling coach for the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Afghanistan’s national team, and Pakistan’s senior men’s side.
He stepped in as Pakistan’s bowling coach after Morne Morkel’s departure and worked with the national team during the Test series against Australia in late 2023 and the T20I series against New Zealand in early 2024.
The PCB’s recent coaching reshuffle also saw Mohammad Masroor step down as fielding coach, with Australian Shane McDermott taking over the role.
Additionally, Grant Luden has returned as the team’s Strength and Conditioning Coach, a role he has held in the past.
The Pakistan Shaheens will return to Darwin for the 2025 Top End T20 Series, marking their third consecutive appearance in the tournament.
The event will run from August 14 to 24, with the Shaheens facing Bangladesh ‘A’ in the opening match at TIO Stadium. The 2025 edition will feature 11 teams playing 36 T20 matches across five venues in Darwin.
In previous editions, the Shaheens have performed well, reaching the final in 2023 and the semi-final in 2024, with notable wins against teams like Perth Scorchers, Tasmania, Melbourne Renegades, and Bangladesh ‘A’.