Former Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul has confirmed that he is currently in discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for the role of pace bowling coach. The development was reported by Cricbuzz on Monday, April 7, and comes at a time when BCB is evaluating options to replace current coach Andre Adams.
Adams, who has a contract running through February 2026, is reportedly unlikely to complete his term due to dissatisfaction within the team about his performance. Despite being in charge for the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, his future with the team appears uncertain, prompting BCB to initiate talks with potential successors.
“We are in talks, but nothing is confirmed yet,” Umar Gul told Cricbuzz. “The confirmation depends on mutual understanding and terms and conditions, and that is dependent on the board.”
Gul’s Coaching Pedigree
Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, Umar Gul has made significant strides in his coaching career. Known for his incisive spells and reverse swing during his playing days, Gul represented Pakistan in 47 Tests, 130 ODIs, and 60 T20Is from 2003 to 2016.
Following his retirement, he took on coaching roles with:
- Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL)
- The Afghanistan national team
- Most recently, the Pakistan national team as fast-bowling coach
Gul’s technical expertise and experience in both subcontinental and overseas conditions make him a strong candidate for the role.
Other Contenders in the Mix
Apart from Gul, other former international pacers have been considered for the position. Notable names include:
- Shaun Tait (Australia)
- Allan Donald (Former Bangladesh pace coach)
- Ottis Gibson (Former West Indies and Bangladesh bowling coach)
BCB appears keen on appointing someone with international pedigree and proven coaching credentials, and the search is underway to finalize the right candidate.
Broader Coaching Changes in BCB
BCB has also been busy reinforcing its support staff structure. They recently extended head coach Phil Simmons’ tenure until the 2027 ICC World Cup, signaling long-term planning.
In addition, Mohammad Salahuddin is set to return as senior assistant coach, with a verbal agreement already finalized.
“The formalities might be completed during the board meeting. The announcement was supposed to be made then, but due to unforeseen reasons, it got postponed,” said a BCB official.
Salahuddin, a trusted name in Bangladesh’s cricket ecosystem, has previously served in multiple roles, including batting coach, and will play a significant role in preparing the team for upcoming tours.
What’s Next?
If appointed, Umar Gul will inherit a promising yet inconsistent pace battery, with the likes of Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Ebadot Hossain in the ranks. His experience with grooming young pacers and strategic insights could be vital as Bangladesh gears up for key tournaments and the new World Test Championship cycle.
As of now, the final decision rests on the terms negotiated between Gul and the BCB. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see if this promising collaboration comes to fruition.
