The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Aaqib Javed as the new head coach of the national cricket team, ahead of a three-match ODI and three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe.

Sources within the PCB indicate Javed’s appointment stems from his experience coaching the Lahore Qalandars’ development squad during their tour of Zimbabwe, as well as his previous role as the national team’s bowling coach.

The appointment follows the resignation of Gary Kirsten as head coach prior to the Australia tour. Following Kirsten’s departure, the red-ball head coach, Jason Gillespie, was given additional responsibility for the white-ball team.

Reports suggest Kirsten’s resignation was due to disagreements with the PCB and selection committee member Aqib Javed. Tensions between Kirsten and the PCB had been brewing for some time, reportedly stemming from a dispute over Kirsten’s ability to bring in his preferred support staff.

This announcement comes a day after former Test cricketer Mohammad Yousuf parted ways with the PCB, leaving his coaching position at the National Cricket Academy.

Pakistan is scheduled to play Zimbabwe from November 24th to December 5th, followed by a tour of South Africa from December 10th to January 7th, encompassing three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Test matches.