ISLAMABAD: Pakistan cricket is poised to bolster its coaching team ahead of the upcoming three-match Test series against England, with reports suggesting the addition of former Multan Sultans assistant coach Mike Smith as the batting coach. Sources indicated on Monday that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is close to finalizing Smith’s appointment, pending final formalities.
Smith, a Level 4-qualified coach and ex-South African first-class cricketer, has garnered respect for his coaching credentials and familiarity with Pakistan cricket, having previously worked with Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The PCB has been working to find a permanent batting coach since earlier this year and officially launched a search in May through a public advertisement inviting applications.
The application window closed on June 7, after which the PCB began reviewing candidates and narrowing down its choices. If appointed, Smith is expected to assume his role in time for Pakistan’s Test tour of England scheduled later this month.
Currently, the batting coach position is held on an interim basis by former Pakistani cricketer Asad Shafiq, who joined the support staff in April 2026 as part of the team led by head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed.
Pakistan’s tour of England will kick off with the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, from August 19 to 23. The second Test is scheduled at Lord’s from August 27 to 31, followed by the final match at Edgbaston, Birmingham, from September 9 to 13.
