Lahore, 2 November (HS). Darren Gough has been appointed the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) team Lahore Qalandars. His first assignment with the franchise will be the Global Super League (CSL) in Guyana, which begins on November 26.
The appointment is seen as a prelude to a more permanent role for the Qalandars in their stock competition, the PSL. Aaqib Javed, who served as head coach and director of cricket operations for the Qalandars for eight years, stepped down last month to focus on a new role with Pakistan Cricket at the PCB. He is now a member of the selection committee for the Pakistan men's national team.
Qalandars won the PSL title twice in a row in 2022 and 2023, but this year they finished at the bottom. Aaqib's departure has left a void in the franchise, which they are looking to fill before the PSL begins in April next year.
Gough, who retired as England's leading ODI wicket-taker in 2006 (and is still second in the list behind James Anderson), is keen on the role, seeing the GSL as a useful opportunity. are being looked at so that they can find their feet before permanent decisions are taken.
“It is a huge honor to be asked by Lahore Qalandars to become the head coach for the Global Super League in Guyana,” Gough said in a statement. I am very excited about this opportunity, as I have had the privilege of working with the Qalandars in Lahore on several occasions, where I have worked closely with their PDP [खिलाड़ी विकास कार्यक्रम] I have helped.”
He said, “We know that Lahore Qalandars aims to provide young players with opportunities that they have never had before – to develop their skills and turn them into players who can represent Qalandars and hopefully bring Pakistan cricket to the forefront.” Can make you proud.”
Gough most recently served as managing director at his old club Yorkshire, having been appointed in December 2021 following allegations of racism at the club. He parted ways with Yorkshire in March this year. Earlier, he worked as England's bowling consultant in 2020.
Shortly after Gough joined Yorkshire in 2021, the club launched a partnership with the Qalandars with the aim of “nurturing talent by reducing barriers to entry” following the racism crisis.
Qalandars co-owner Sameen Rana said Goff's vision aligns seamlessly with our commitment to player development.
Five teams will participate in the GSL. These include Qalandars from PSL, Hampshire Hawks from T20 Blast, Rangpur Riders from BPL, Victoria from Australia and hosts Guyana Amazon Warriors. The final will be held on 7th December.