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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly set to name Shahid Aslam as the new batting coach for the national men’s team ahead of their upcoming white-ball tour of Zimbabwe. Sources on Tuesday revealed that Aslam’s appointment comes after a recommendation by interim head coach Aqib Javed, as the team looks to address its batting woes following a disappointing T20I series against Australia.
Shahid Aslam: From Support Staff to Batting Coach
Having served in various support roles with the national team over the years, Shahid Aslam is now set to step into a pivotal position as batting coach. Known for his technical knowledge and familiarity with Pakistan’s cricketing system, Aslam’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to bolster the batting lineup.
His first major assignment will be Pakistan’s six-match white-ball series in Zimbabwe, consisting of three ODIs and three T20Is starting November 24.
PCB Looks to Revamp After Australia Debacle
Pakistan’s struggles during the recent T20I series against Australia highlighted the need for urgent changes. The batters, in particular, failed to deliver, with the team being swept 3-0.
- Usman Khan was the lone bright spot, scoring 59 runs across three innings.
- Babar Azam, one of Pakistan’s most dependable players, could only manage 47 runs in the series, including a top score of 41.
- Australia’s Marcus Stoinis dominated the final T20I in Hobart, guiding his team to a convincing seven-wicket victory.
The PCB’s decision to bring in Shahid Aslam is aimed at addressing these glaring issues, with hopes that his guidance can improve the team’s performance ahead of the Zimbabwe tour.
Pakistan’s Schedule in Zimbabwe
The tour will see Pakistan playing in Bulawayo, starting with the ODI series, followed by the T20I matches:
- November 24: 1st ODI
- November 26: 2nd ODI
- November 28: 3rd ODI
- December 1: 1st T20I
- December 3: 2nd T20I
- December 5: 3rd T20I
What’s Next for Pakistan?
Beyond the Zimbabwe series, Pakistan’s cricketing calendar intensifies with a challenging tour to South Africa. This gives Aslam limited time to make an impact and instill confidence in the batting lineup.
The spotlight will be on the team to see if the new coaching appointment can reignite their batting form. Will Shahid Aslam’s leadership mark the beginning of a turnaround for Pakistan cricket? Only time will tell.
