Umar Gul to Lead Pakistan Shaheens as Head Coach
Former pace spearhead set to guide emerging players on international tours
According to multiple media reports circulating in Pakistan cricket circles, former fast bowling great Umar Gul is set to be appointed as the head coach of Pakistan Shaheens for their upcoming assignments including the Top End T20 series in Australia and the developmental tour of England.
Gul’s Transition to Coaching Role
The 39-year-old former right-arm fast bowler, who retired from international cricket in 2020, has been gradually transitioning into coaching roles. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) hasn’t made an official announcement yet, sources suggest Gul’s appointment is imminent.
“Umar Gul has shown excellent potential as a coach. His understanding of modern cricket and ability to communicate with young players makes him an ideal candidate for the Shaheens role,” a PCB insider was quoted as saying.
This would mark Gul’s first full-time head coach assignment at the international level, having previously served as bowling coach for various teams. The Pakistan Shaheens, serving as the country’s second-tier national team, play a crucial role in player development.
Upcoming Shaheens Tours
- 1 Top End T20 Series in Australia (August 2024)
- 2 England Development Tour (September 2024)
Gul’s Coaching Credentials
Afghanistan Bowling Coach (2020-2021)
Gul began his coaching career with Afghanistan, helping develop their pace bowling attack including emerging talents like Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Quetta Gladiators Bowling Coach (2021-2023)
He joined his former PSL franchise in a coaching capacity, working with both international stars and domestic bowlers.
Pakistan Bowling Consultant (2022)
Briefly worked with the national team during home series, sharing his expertise with Pakistan’s pace battery.
Gul’s Illustrious Playing Career
Test Career
- Matches: 47
- Wickets: 163
- Best: 6/135
- Average: 34.06
ODI Career
- Matches: 130
- Wickets: 179
- Best: 6/42
- Average: 29.34
T20I Career
- Matches: 60
- Wickets: 85
- Best: 5/6
- Average: 16.97
Gul was particularly renowned for his T20 bowling, with his 5/6 against New Zealand in 2009 remaining the best figures by a Pakistani in T20Is. He was part of Pakistan’s 2009 T20 World Cup winning squad.
What This Appointment Means
For Pakistan Cricket
Gul’s potential appointment signals PCB’s preference for former players who understand the domestic structure. His experience working with emerging players in Afghanistan and PSL makes him well-suited for the Shaheens role.
For Umar Gul
This would be Gul’s biggest coaching challenge yet, serving as a stepping stone to higher roles. Success with Shaheens could position him as a future candidate for national team coaching positions.