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The Pakistan Cricket Board is still undecided on a new head coach for the women’s team, after the Fatima Sana-led side finished last in the recent ODI World Cup and as a result of which, the previous coach, Muhammad Wasim, was relieved of his duties soon after Pakistan’s unceremonious exit. Pakistan ended the tournament winless, with three of their seven games washed out, as they played in Colombo, after having signed a deal with India, which ensures that the two neighbours don’t visit each other for cricketing commitments till 2027. Speculation had linked former pacer Wahab Riaz to a role as consultant or head coach of the women’s team, but the PCB has denied the reports. “Wahab has already been working as a consultant in the PCB with various teams but has been given no new assignment as yet,” an official was quoted as saying by PTI. The Pakistan Cricket Board had decided against extending the contract of former test batter, Muhammad Wasim as head coach of the women’s team last week. Wasim, a former Test cricketer who has served as chief selector of the men’s teams as well, was appointed head coach in 2024. A reliable source revealed that the PCB has been in talks with two foreign coaches for the women’s team, but no decisions have been finalised. “If things don’t work out with the foreign coaches, the PCB will look at local options, foremost among them is former women’s team captain, Bismah Maroof,” the source was quoted as saying by PTI. The source added that Riaz would only be considered for the women’s team head coach role if other options fall through, though he has expressed willingness to take on the challenge. The Pakistan women’s team ended up last among the eight World Cup teams, finishing below even Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. They lost four games, while three others were abandoned because of rain in Colombo. Pakistan’s next scheduled assignment is only in February, when they travel to South Africa for three ODIs and as many T20Is.
