ISLAMABAD: Younis Khan is likely to replace Sarfaraz Ahmed as Pakistan’s Test head coach as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) weighs a broader restructuring of the national red-ball setup following a disappointing run of results.
Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that the PCB is evaluating several changes across the men’s Test programme, with former captain Younis Khan emerging as the leading candidate for a senior coaching position. The board is also considering adding him to the national selection panel as part of a wider effort to strengthen decision-making ahead of upcoming World Test Championship fixtures.
The proposed move comes after Pakistan’s recent struggles in Test cricket, including consecutive series defeats against Bangladesh national cricket team. Those results have prompted internal reviews of both the leadership group and the team’s long-term direction.
Current Test head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed only took charge earlier this year, overseeing Pakistan’s tour of Bangladesh as his first assignment. Despite the setbacks, sources suggest he is expected to remain involved in the national pathway structure, with continued responsibilities linked to the Pakistan Shaheens programme.
Hafeez tipped for key administrative position
Alongside the potential appointment of Younis Khan, former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez is being considered for a senior administrative role within the PCB. Discussions are centred on the vacant Director of International Cricket position, which has remained unfilled since last year.
Hafeez could also become part of the men’s selection committee, adding further international experience to a group that already includes Aaqib Javed, Misbah-ul-Haq, Asad Shafiq and Sarfaraz Ahmed.
Leadership questions remain
The review is not limited to the coaching staff. Reports in recent weeks have linked Test captain Shan Masood with a possible change in leadership, while Salman Ali Agha has been mentioned as a potential successor should the PCB decide to appoint a new captain.
No official announcement has been made by the PCB, but discussions regarding the future structure of the Test team are understood to be ongoing.