NEW DELHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former middle-order batsman and chief selector Muhammad Wasim as the head coach for the women’s cricket team in preparation for the upcoming Asia Cup scheduled for July.

During Ramiz Raja’s administration as PCB Chairman, Wasim held the position of chief selector. As reported by PTI, his coaching team will include Junaid Khan and Abdul Rehman, who have been designated as the assistant and bowling coaches, respectively.

Both Khan and Rehman bring their experience as former Test bowlers to the coaching staff. This decision to alter the women’s team management for the white ball format comes after a period marked by underwhelming performances, culminating in a notably disappointing series against England.

The Asia Cup, set to commence on July 19 in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, will see Pakistan and India placed in the same group. The tournament will feature a total of eight teams, including the host nation, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Malaysia, and Thailand, all competing for the championship. This event is a significant opportunity for the participating teams to showcase their talents on a continental stage.

In anticipation of the Asia Cup, the PCB initiated a four-day conditioning camp in Karachi, which started on Wednesday. The purpose of this camp is to prepare the players physically and mentally for the challenges ahead. The selection committee is expected to announce the final squad for the tournament next week, following the conclusion of the camp.

The restructuring of the women’s team management and the introduction of a conditioning camp ahead of the Asia Cup are steps taken by the PCB to enhance the team’s performance on an international level. These changes reflect the board’s commitment to improving the competitive standing of the women’s cricket team, especially in light of recent setbacks.

The selection of experienced individuals such as Muhammad Wasim, Junaid Khan, and Abdul Rehman for the coaching staff is indicative of the PCB’s strategic approach to bolster the team’s preparation and performance in the forthcoming Asia Cup.