The story of cricket is always changing, and sometimes, a special event or a person stands. A similar key scene stirs when Aaqib Javed steps up. He’s known for his good bowling and smart plays, and now he’s the temporary white-ball coach for Pakistan. He went from being the fast-bowling coach for Sri Lanka to a key part of Pakistan’s cricket future. Aaqib’s path is a story of change and drive for Pakistan cricket.
Aaqib’s rise from coach to selector,
A few months back, Aaqib Javed wasn’t closely involved with Pakistan cricket. Nevertheless, he was helping shape Sri Lanka’s fast bowlers, with no obvious link to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This dramatically changed when he was named on Pakistan’s new selection committee—a move that seemed normal initially but was soon transformative.
Aaqib played a significant part in Pakistan’s extraordinary Test series victory in England, catapulting his name to new heights. PCB recognized him as a driving force behind the turnaround. They appointed him as the limited-overs coach until the Champions Trophy. Unlike a few previous coaches, Aaqib’s dual role as selector and coach is cooperative, not authoritative.
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Pakistan’s tour of Zimbabwe
Aaqib is gearing up for a key task – a six-game Zimbabwe journey. He’s looking at two goals: securing Pakistan’s ODI approach and fostering T20Is reserve power. Aaqib doesn’t view the tour simply as a win-loss situation. He’s about laying firm roots for longevity. “We’re zeroing in on ODI cricket with the Champions Trophy in view,” asserted a self-assured Aaqib. “T20Is form the perfect stage for budding players. Unless new faces are put to test, strengthening reserve ranks is impossible.”
Match Type | Date | Location |
1st ODI | November 24, 2024 | Bulawayo |
2nd ODI | November 26, 2024 | |
3rd ODI | November 28, 2024 | |
1st T20I | December 1, 2024 | |
2nd T20I | December 3, 2024 | |
3rd T20I | December 5, 2024 |
Aaqib is familiar with fame and the inspection it carries. He previously expressed concerns about double duties in Pakistan’s cricket scene, openly questioning the former coach, Misbah-ul-Haq. Now, finding himself in a comparable role, Aaqib asserts his situation differs. “I’m on a committee, not the main selector,” he explained. “The duty is shared, and our collective aim is improving Pakistan cricket.” He recognizes the high stakes and expects criticism, yet he sees it as a natural part of the sport.
Aaqib has truly stepped up as a coach. With Mohammad Rizwan as the new captain, Pakistan surprised everyone. They won their first Test series in Australia in over twenty years – a sign of their strong will and faith. Grabbing chances is key to victory, believes Aaqib, reflecting on the team’s journey. As the team gears up for the Zimbabwe tour, Aaqib’s plan is straightforward: meticulously train for the Champions Trophy and nurture budding stars. It’s more than just games; it’s about reshaping Pakistan cricket’s spirit—mixing age-old values with fresh ideas and merging dreams with grounded expectations.
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