PCB hands Sarfaraz Ahmed full charge of Shaheens and U19 teams

Published - 17 Nov 2025, 18:21 IST | Updated - 17 Nov 2025, 18:21 IST

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assigned significant new responsibilities to former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, marking an important development in the country’s junior cricket setup. According to reports, the ex-wicketkeeper-batter has been entrusted with overseeing both the Pakistan Shaheens and the Pakistan Under-19 teams moving forward.

His appointment comes at a crucial time, with both sides preparing for major upcoming assignments. The Pakistan Shaheens are currently in Doha for the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025, while the Pakistan Under-19 team is gearing up for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.

As reported by Geo News, Sarfaraz has been directed by the PCB to supervise all matters concerning the Pakistan Shaheens and the Under-19 squad. His role will involve closely monitoring the performance of the coaching staff of both teams and reviewing their progress during training and tours.

The 2017 ICC Champions Trophy-winning captain will accompany the junior squads during their practice sessions, series, and international engagements, ensuring that their preparation remains in line with the board’s long-term development plans.

One of Sarfaraz’s most critical assignments will be overseeing the Under-19 team’s buildup to the 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup. The tournament, scheduled to be held across Zimbabwe and Namibia in January and February next year, represents a vital opportunity for Pakistan’s next generation of cricketers.

Sarfaraz’s experience in high-pressure environments and his familiarity with youth cricket, having himself led Pakistan to the 2006 Under-19 World Cup title, will be valuable r the team’s preparation.

The 38-year-old former cricketer last featured for Pakistan in December 2023 before signaling the end of his international career. Over the course of a 16-year journey, Sarfaraz represented Pakistan in 54 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 61 T20Is after making his debut in 2007. He remains celebrated for captaining the national side to a memorable and dominant victory over arch-rivals India in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final in England.