The Pakistan Cricket Board has appointed former South African first-class cricketer Mike Smith as the country’s batting coach for the upcoming three-Test tour of England, with his role set to begin when the series opens at Headingley on August 19.
Smith holds a Level-4 batting coaching qualification, the highest tier in the coaching pathway, and brings considerable experience from franchise cricket across multiple competitions. He has worked with several Pakistan Super League sides, including Multan Sultans, which means he already has working knowledge of several players currently in Pakistan’s Test setup.
Smith steps into the position vacated by Asad Shafiq, who took charge as interim batting coach in April 2026. Shafiq will remain involved with Pakistan cricket in his capacity as a national selector once Smith assumes his duties.
The PCB began its structured search for a permanent batting coach in May 2026, advertising the role publicly and setting an application deadline of June 7. After reviewing the pool of candidates, the board shortlisted Smith and subsequently reached a verbal agreement with him.
What does Smith’s appointment address in Pakistan’s batting setup?
The PCB’s decision to pursue a permanent appointment rather than extend the interim arrangement reflects the board’s intent to bring sustained, specialist attention to Pakistan’s batting. Smith’s appointment is aimed at addressing technical shortcomings that have repeatedly undermined Pakistan’s batting across formats. His PSL experience with Multan Sultans and other franchises gives him prior exposure to the conditions and personalities within Pakistan’s batting group. His Level-4 accreditation and franchise background were central factors in the board’s decision to reach an agreement with him ahead of a demanding Test series in England.
What is the schedule for Pakistan’s three-Test series in England?
Pakistan’s tour of England covers three venues across three weeks. The opening Test runs from August 19 to 23 at Headingley, the second from August 27 to 31 at Lord’s, and the third from September 9 to 13 at Edgbaston.
Smith is expected to join the squad from the start of the Headingley Test, leaving him with limited time to work with the batters before the series begins. The PCB’s move to finalise his appointment before the tour departs underlines the board’s preference for having a permanent specialist in place for the full duration of the England assignment.
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