In a pivotal move aimed at fortifying Pakistan’s bowling artillery, former cricketing maestros Umar Gul and Saeed Ajmal have been anointed as the Fast Bowling and Spin Bowling Coaches, respectively, for the national men’s team. The revered duo, part of the triumphant squads that clinched the 2009 T20 World Cup and the 2012 Asia Cup, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to their new roles.
Their inaugural assignments, set against the backdrop of Pakistan’s forthcoming cricketing battles, will witness Gul and Ajmal sculpting the skills of the upcoming Test series against Australia, scheduled from 14 December 2023 to 7 January 2024, and the subsequent T20I series against New Zealand, slated from 12 to 21 January 2024.
Umar Gul, an illustrious figure known for his lethal fast bowling, has previously served in the capacity of bowling coach for the Pakistan Men’s Team during pivotal encounters. His coaching acumen was witnessed during the T20I series against Afghanistan and the subsequent clashes against New Zealand on home soil. With an impressive international career spanning 13 years, encompassing 47 Tests, 130 ODIs, and 60 T20Is, Gul’s legacy stands tall, boasting 427 international wickets.
Saeed Ajmal, a spin wizard renowned for his craft and guile, joins the coaching ranks as the Spin Bowling Coach for the national side. A luminary figure in Pakistan cricket, Ajmal’s international career spanned across 35 Tests, 113 ODIs, and 64 T20Is, amassing a staggering tally of 447 wickets. His expertise was also nurtured in the coaching arena with the HBL PSL franchise Islamabad United, paving the way for his role as the Spin Bowling Coach.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the opportunity, Umar Gul remarked, “I am pleased to join as the bowling coach of Pakistan team and feel honoured to have been given the opportunity to contribute to Pakistan cricket. Having had previous working experience with the men’s side, I will bring my coaching expertise with the aim of elevating Pakistan’s bowling prowess to new heights.”
Equally thrilled, Saeed Ajmal stated, “I am truly honoured and grateful for the opportunity provided by Chairman PCB Management Committee to serve as the spin bowling coach. I am delighted to contribute to the development of spin bowling talent within the Pakistan national team. I believe my career and coaching experience will help enhance the spin bowling arsenal of the team.”
The infusion of Gul and Ajmal’s cricketing wisdom and expertise marks an exciting chapter in Pakistan’s cricketing journey, aiming to refine and elevate the national team’s bowling dynamics.
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