BCB eyeing Umar Gul for pace bowling coach role

Former Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul is currently in discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to take up the role of bowling coach for the national team. The BCB is actively looking for a new pace bowling coach to replace Andre Adams, whose performance has reportedly caused dissatisfaction among team members. Although Adams’ contract is valid until February 2026, he will continue to oversee the bowlers during the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe.

Gul, who retired from international cricket in 2020, is among the top contenders for the role. He represented Pakistan in 47 Tests, 130 ODIs, and 60 T20Is from 2003 to 2016. The pacer transitioned into coaching after his playing times, having worked with Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Afghanistan’s national team, and as Pakistan’s fast-bowling coach.

“We are in talks, but nothing is confirmed yet. The confirmation depends on mutual understanding and terms and conditions, and that is dependent on the board," Cricbuzz quoted Gul as saying.

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In addition to Gul, the BCB has reportedly considered several other names for the bowling coach position. The list includes former Australian pacer Shaun Tait, former Bangladesh bowling coaches Allan Donald and Ottis Gibson.

Meanwhile, the BCB has extended the contract of coach Phil Simmons until the 2027 ICC World Cup. The board has also finalised the reappointment of Mohammad Salahuddin as senior assistant coach. He is regarded highly for holding the role of senior assistant coach and later added the batting coach title. He is expected to play a crucial role in Bangladesh’s preparations for upcoming international duties.

"The verbal agreement with Salahuddin bhai has been finalised. 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.