PCB set to appoint ex-Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as head coach for Tests after T20 World Cup 2026 horror show

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is yet to conclude but Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is already looking to make several changes. After reportedly finding players PKR 50 lakh each for dismal show in Sri Lanka, the board has shifted focus to Test cricket. As per a report by Geo News, former Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed is set to fill the vacant spot of head coach for the longest format.

After Jason Gillespie stepped down as head coach midway through his tenure, Azhar Mahmood assumed the role. Mahmood was sacked three months prior to when his contract was scheduled to expire.

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This is not the first time Sarfaraz will take up coaching duties. He has been involved with the Under-19 team and Pakistan Shaheens (A team). He mentored the Under-19 Asia Cup 2025-winning side. After the win, PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi was urged by fans to make Sarfaraz coach of the senior team.

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Sarfaraz was also mentor of the team during Under-19 World Cup 2026 where Pakistan failed to make it past the Super Six stage and India went on to win the title. Recently, he was with Pakistan Shaheens for the white-ball series against England Lions. Pakistan Shaheens lost four consecutive games before the Iran’s missile strikes in UAE cancelled the tour.

Pakistan’s WTC 2025-27 schedule

Pakistan have played just two Tests in the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. They drew the home two-Test series against defending champions South Africa.

Their next Test assignment is a two-Test series on Bangladesh soil in March 2026. However, there is a question mark on the tour currently. It is followed by an away two-Test series against West Indies in July. Then, they will head to England for a three-Test series in August. At home, they will play Sri Lanka in a two-Test series in November. Their last Test series of the current cycle is a two-Test series against New Zealand in March.

Will Hesson face the axe?

Meanwhile, head coach Mike Hesson has faced widespread scrutiny for his team selection and tactics during the T20 World Cup 2026. PCB is known for knee-jerk reactions after every failed campaign. It will be interesting to see if Hesson retains his place or steps down like Gillespie.