The ECB is seeking a replacement for Kabir Khan after the former Pakistan fast-bowler left his post to re-join the Afghanistan team. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reacted with surprise over the development, the ECB said that the process to appoint Aqib, also a former Pakistan fast-bowler, was underway.
“We need Kabir’s replacement,” ECB Chief Executive Officer Dilawar Mani told The Express Tribune. “We received many applications for the post but Aqib is a prime choice and we are looking forward to appointing him as coach.”
Aqib, who was left out of the touring party for the Zimbabwe tour as well as the series against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh that followed, was re-appointed prior to the England series on a permanent basis by the coach-hunting committee that was led by Intikhab Alam.
The former fast-bowler, who played 163 One-Day Internationals and 22 Tests, also worked as Pakistan bowling coach during Waqar Younis’ tenure as head coach. The 39-year-old was also involved in other coaching roles including stints with the Lahore Regional Academy, the Pakistan under-19 team as well as the head coach at the National Cricket Academy.
Mani said Aqib was highly qualified, making him the ECB’s first choice.
“He has strong credentials as coach and a vast international experience. We are yet to hear from Aqib and the PCB.”
Meanwhile, Alam said he was unaware of the development.
“We haven’t been conveyed officially in this regard,” said the former team manager.
Another PCB official said the board only heard of the news through media reports.
“We are yet to hear anything about it. Even Aqib hasn’t said anything. If there is such an offer, he will wait till the England series is over before quitting.”
Published in The Express Tribune, February 11th, 2012.
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