‘Guldozer and Magician, maza aa gaya’ – Fans react as PCB appoint Umar Gul and Saeed Ajmal as Pakistan bowling coaches

The Pakistan Cricket Team delivered a disappointing performance in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023, failing to qualify for the knockouts and finishing in the 5th position on the points table. With only 4 wins and 5 defeats, including a loss to Afghanistan, changes were anticipated in the coaching department by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The shake-up began with Babar Azam stepping down from the captaincy. Following this, Shaheen Afridi and Shan Masood were appointed as the T20I and Test captains, respectively. Wahab Riaz took on the role of chief selector, while Mohammad Hafeez became the Team Director and also assumed the position of head coach for the upcoming Australia and New Zealand series.

I am pleased to join as the bowling coach: Umar Gul

In the latest development, the PCB announced the appointment of former Pakistan bowlers Umar Gul and Saeed Ajmal as the team’s bowling coaches. Umar Gul will focus on fast bowling, while Saeed Ajmal will guide the spinners. Both coaches shared their sentiments after being appointed to these crucial roles.

“I am pleased to join as the bowling coach of the Pakistan team and feel honoured to have been given the opportunity to contribute to Pakistan cricket by the Chairman PCB Management Committee Mr Zaka Ashraf. Having had previous working experience with the men’s side, I will bring my coaching expertise with the aim of elevating Pakistan’s bowling prowess to new heights,” Umar Gul was quoted as saying by Cricket One.

“I am truly honoured and grateful for the opportunity provided by the Chairman PCB Management Committee Mr Zaka Ashraf to serve as the spin bowling coach. I am delighted to contribute to the development of spin bowling talent within the Pakistan national team. I believe my career and coaching experience will help enhance the spin bowling arsenal of the team,” Saeed Ajmal was quoted as saying by Cricket One.

Here’s how fans reacted: