Pakistan appoints Mike Smith as Test batting coach

The Pakistan Cricket Board is finalizing the appointment of former South African first-class cricketer Mike Smith as the permanent batting coach for the national Test team ahead of its upcoming tour of England. The move, expected to be officially announced imminently, aims to address persistent batting inconsistencies within the squad.

Smith, a Level 4-qualified coach, emerged as the leading candidate following a recruitment process that began in May. The PCB publicly advertised the position, with the application window closing on June 7, before reviewing and shortlisting candidates. Smith's familiarity with Pakistan's domestic cricket structure, gained through his previous work with the Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League, is seen as a key asset.

He is slated to replace former Pakistan batter Asad Shafiq, who has served as the interim batting coach since April 2026 as part of the support staff assembled under Test head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed. Sources indicated that Shafiq's multiple roles, which also included serving on selection committees and heading the PCB's academy in Karachi, were viewed as a diversion, making a dedicated appointment necessary.