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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former left-arm fast bowler Junaid Khan as the new bowling coach for the U-19 team ahead of the Under-19 World Cup scheduled to be held in South Africa in January-February 2024.
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Junaid Khan was brought into the team following Rehan Riaz's withdrawal from the tournament due to a family emergency. This change could turn out to be advantageous for the team, considering Junaid's reputation as one of the game's most skilled bowlers.
His mentorship could be pivotal for the development of the young Pakistani players. Given Pakistan's renowned prowess in fast bowling, Junaid's presence might significantly bolster the team's pace attack in the tournament, potentially making it more formidable. Junaid's involvement with the team could indeed be the perfect enhancement for the Men in Green.
Junaid Khan brings a notable amount of coaching expertise to his new role. The ex-fast bowler previously served as the head coach for the Islamabad Region, leading the team to victories in both the Hanif Mohammad Trophy and Hanif Mohammad Cup for the 2023-24 season. His valuable experience proved beneficial for the team.
The PCB is optimistic that Junaid Khan will replicate this success in the forthcoming U19 World Cup. Renowned as one of Pakistan's premier fast bowlers, his leadership significantly strengthened Pakistan's bowling force during his playing career.
A standout moment in Junaid Khan's career was the 2013 series against India, where he consistently challenged Virat Kohli, dismissing him three times in as many games. His dominant performance in this series was a key factor in Pakistan's victory.
Junaid Khan has an impressive international cricket record, having played in 107 matches for Pakistan and taking 189 wickets throughout his career. He featured in 22 Test matches, 76 ODIs, and 9 T20s. Junaid was regarded as one of the finest pacers, and his career might have been even more illustrious if not for injuries.
The ICC U19 World Cup 2023 is set to be held in South Africa. The tournament was initially planned for Sri Lanka but was relocated to South Africa following an ICC ban on the island nation. Pakistan enters the tournament as one of the favorites, thanks to their strong squad selection and the talent within their ranks.
Pakistan has a respectable history in the U19 World Cup, having won it in 2004 and 2006 and finishing fifth in the last edition in 2022. The PCB has recently announced their squad for the upcoming tournament. The team boasts some promising players, and participating in such a significant event could be a pivotal moment in their careers.
Pakistan's Under-19 World Cup squad: Saad Baig (c) (wk), Ali Asfand (vc), Ali Raza, Ahmad Hassan, Amir Hassan, Arfat Minhas, Azan Awais, Haroon Arshad, Khubaib Khalil, Mohammad Zeeshan, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Shahzaib Khan, Shamyl Hussain, Muhammad Riazullah and Ubaid Shah.
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