Lahore: Darren Gough has been appointed 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 believed to be a prelude to the Qalandars’ more permanent role in the PSL, the stock competition.
Aaqib Javed, who served as head coach and director of cricket operations for the Qalandars for eight years, stepped down from his position with Pakistan Cricket last month to focus on a new role at the PCB. He is now a member of the selection committee for the Pakistan men’s national team.
The Qalandars won the PSL title twice in a row in 2022 and 2023, but they finished bottom this year. Aaqib’s departure has left a void at the franchise, which they are looking to fill before the PSL begins in April next year. Gough, who retired in 2006 as England’s leading ODI wicket-taker (and is still second on the list behind James Anderson), is keen on the role, with the GSL being seen as a useful opportunity to find his feet before a permanent decision is made.
Gough said in a statement: “It is a huge honour to be asked by Lahore Qalandars to become the head coach for the Global Super League in Guyana. I am very excited about this opportunity as I have had the privilege of working with the Qalandars in Lahore on a number of occasions where I have assisted with their PDP (player development programme). We know that Lahore Qalandars’ aim is to provide young players with opportunities they have never had before – developing their skills and turning them into players who can represent the Qalandars and hopefully make Pakistan cricket proud.”
Gough most recently served as managing director at his old club Yorkshire, appointed in December 2021 following allegations of racism levelled at the club. He parted ways with Yorkshire in March this year. Prior to this, he had served as England’s bowling consultant in 2020. Shortly after Gough joined Yorkshire in 2021, the club began 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 Gough’s vision aligned seamlessly with our commitment to player development. Five teams will participate in the GSL. These include Qalandars from the PSL, Hampshire Hawks from the T20 Blast, Rangpur Riders from the BPL, Victoria from Australia and hosts Guyana Amazon Warriors. The final will be held on December 7.
