PCB to remove Champions Cup mentors

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to part ways with five former cricketers who were serving as mentors in domestic cricket.

According to reports, Shoaib Malik, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Misbah-ul-Haq, Waqar Younis, and Saqlain Mushtaq have been relieved of their mentoring duties following a performance review.

The decision comes as part of the PCB's broader efforts to overhaul its cricketing structure. Reports indicate that while these former stars will no longer serve as domestic team mentors, discussions are underway to assign important roles to former captains Sarfaraz Ahmed and Misbah-ul-Haq within the PCB.

However, no official announcement has yet been made regarding their new positions.

This move coincides with other significant developments at the board. The Chairman of the PCB, Mohsin Naqvi, has confirmed Mike Hesson as the new white-ball head coach of the national side, while former fast bowler Aqib Javed has been appointed Director of High Performance.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Naqvi stated, "I'm pleased to announce that former New Zealand cricketer and seasoned coach Mike Hesson will be joining the Pakistan Cricket Team as White Ball Head Coach starting May 26."

In a follow-up tweet, he added, "To strengthen our cricket infrastructure, Aqib Javed joins us as Director of High Performance, complementing Mike Hesson's appointment as White-ball Head Coach. Together, they will play a pivotal role in the evolution and success of Pakistan Cricket."

Hesson, known for his calm leadership and sharp tactical mind, was chosen after evaluating multiple applications. His experience, including coaching New Zealand and, most recently, leading Islamabad United to the PSL 9 title, made him the top choice to guide Pakistan's limited-overs sides.

On the other hand, Aqib Javed, who served briefly as interim coach after Gary Kirsten's resignation, reportedly showed no interest in extending his coaching role. His new position will focus on strengthening domestic cricket and player development.

Saqlain Mushtaq, one of those released from mentoring duties, is now expected to return to the national setup, this time as the bowling coach. His reappointment reflects the PCB's strategy of bringing experienced names back into more specialised roles.