Michael Smith named Pakistan men's cricket team batting coach

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former South African cricketer Michael Smith as the batting coach for the Pakistan men's national team. The agreement spans two years, marking a significant addition to the team's coaching staff.

Smith, 46, will be involved with the team across both red-ball and white-ball formats. His tenure begins immediately, as he is set to join the squad prior to the upcoming three-match Test series against England, scheduled to commence on August 19.

With a playing career that included 89 first-class matches, 72 List-A matches, and 16 T20s between 2003 and 2013, Smith amassed 7,029 runs. He also holds a Level 4 coaching qualification. His coaching experience is extensive, having served with multiple Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises, including Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, and Multan Sultans.

Beyond the PSL, Smith has also worked with Australian teams, including the Hobart Hurricanes and Cricket Tasmania. His international coaching consultancy includes roles with South African provincial sides KZN Inland and Eastern Province. Smith replaces Asad Shafiq, who served as interim batting coach earlier this year.