Sarfaraz Ahmed named Pakistan's Test head coach; Asad Shafiq, Umar Gul take key roles

Islamabad [Pakistan], April 18 (ANI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed the former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed as the head coach of the national men's Test team ahead of next month's two-Test series against Bangladesh.

Former Test regular Asad Shafiq has been appointed the new batting coach, while ex-fast bowler Umar Gul will work as bowling coach in the newly formed Test setup, as per ESPNcricinfo.

PCB also announced a 16-member squad for the Bangladesh Test series, including four uncapped players. Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais and Ghazi Ghori are the fresh faces included in the touring party.

Among them, Ghori is the only player with international exposure, having featured in a solitary ODI against Bangladesh in Mirpur recently.

The veteran left-hand batter, Shan Masood, will continue to lead the side, but the support staff around him has undergone a significant overhaul.

Sarfaraz, who retired from international cricket only last month, brings leadership experience, having guided Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 title.

He also served as mentor and manager of the Pakistan Shaheens during their tour against England Lions earlier this year. Shafiq, known for his solidity in the longest format, scored 4,660 runs in 77 Tests, including 12 centuries.

Gul, one of Pakistan's most successful fast bowlers across formats, claimed 427 wickets in 237 international appearances. Preparation for the Bangladesh tour is already underway.