The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the appointment of Tony Hemming as the new head curator on a two-year contract. The Western Australian curator, renowned for his nearly four decades of experience, will arrive in Lahore on Wednesday to take up his new role.
One of Hemming’s immediate tasks will be preparing pitches for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship matches. Pakistan is set to host Bangladesh for two matches in August and September, followed by three matches against England in October. Additionally, Hemming will oversee pitch preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan from 19 February to 9 March.
A Seasoned Professional
Hemming brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having worked at iconic cricket grounds across Australia, including Melbourne, Perth, and Tasmania. His expertise extends globally, with significant stints in Bangladesh, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Notably, he served as the ICC’s Head Curator in Dubai from 2007 to 2017, where he was instrumental in pitch preparation at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, one of Pakistan’s home venues between 2009 and 2019.
Enhancing Pakistan’s Cricketing Infrastructure
With his extensive background and knowledge, Hemming is expected to elevate the standard of pitches in Pakistan, ensuring they meet the high demands of international cricket. His experience in diverse conditions will be invaluable in preparing competitive and balanced surfaces for both domestic and international matches.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed confidence in Hemming’s appointment, stating, “Tony Hemming’s appointment is a significant step towards enhancing our cricketing infrastructure. His expertise will be crucial in preparing pitches that offer a fair contest between bat and ball, which is vital for the integrity and excitement of the game.”
Hemming’s appointment marks a positive move for the PCB as they continue to focus on improving the quality of cricket in Pakistan. His role will be pivotal in ensuring that the pitches are conducive to high-quality cricket, providing an excellent platform for both local and international players to showcase their skills.
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