Former Pakistan cricketer Aaqib Javed has replaced Jason Gillespie as the new head coach for the ICC Champions Trophy . The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed this piece of news on Monday afternoon via press release. 

PCB STATEMENT

“During this tenure, Aqib will continue to serve as a senior member of the men’s National Selection Committee, and will be assigned additional responsibilities following the conclusion of the eight-team tournament,” the PCB said in an official statement.

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The PCB has stated that the recruitment process for a permanent white-ball head coach will be started soon.

“The PCB will initiate the recruitment process for a permanent white-ball head coach, aiming to complete the appointment by the end of the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled from 19 February to 9 March,” the board said in its statement.

This is being looked at as a massive move. Aaqib is now holding dual responsibilities as the chief selector and the head coach. 

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Meanwhile, the PCB will initiate the recruitment process for a permanent white-ball head coach, aiming to complete the appointment by the end of the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled from 19 February to 9 March.

The white-ball coaching role had become vacant following the resignation of Gary Kirsten. Red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie had coached the side during the recent tour of Australia, who will now rejoin the side for the upcoming two-Test series in South Africa.

WHAT LIES AHEAD FOR PAKISTAN

The Pakistan men’s side is scheduled to play three ODIs and three T20Is in Zimbabwe (24 November – 5 December) and as many white-ball matches in South Africa (10-22 December). In the lead up to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan will host New Zealand and South Africa for an ODI triangular series from 8-14 February.