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Pakistan names Mike Smith as batting coach for England Test tour
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former South African first‑class cricketer Michael (Mike) Smith as the men’s batting coach on a two‑year contract covering all formats. Smith, a Level‑4 qualified coach, joins the side ahead of the three‑match Test series against England, which begins on 19 August at Headingley, followed by Lord’s and Edgbaston. He replaces interim coach Asad Shafiq, who will remain a national selector. The PCB launched a public search for a permanent batting coach in May, closed applications on 7 June, shortlisted candidates and reached a verbal agreement with Smith in early August. Smith brings extensive franchise experience, having worked with PSL sides Multan Sultans, Islamabad United and Karachi Kings, as well as Australian teams Hobart Hurricanes and Cricket Tasmania, and consulting roles in South Africa. His appointment is intended to address Pakistan’s recent batting inconsistencies and provide specialist guidance before the demanding England tour.
Entities
Asad Shafiq · England cricket team · Mike Smith · Pakistan Cricket Board · Sarfaraz Ahmed
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The second Test was played in Port of Spain, Trinidad. lethbridgeherald.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Pakistan held a 43‑run lead after the West Indies were bowled out for 387. lethbridgeherald.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Mike Smith was appointed Pakistan's new batting coach, starting with the England tour in August. www.news18.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Mike Smith is a former South African first‑class cricketer and a Level‑4 batting coach. www.news18.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Babar Azam was run out for 88, ending a 183‑run partnership with Shafique. lethbridgeherald.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Pakistan aimed for its first away Test win since 2023. lethbridgeherald.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Abdullah Shafique scored an unbeaten 160 in the second Test against the West Indies. lethbridgeherald.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Pakistan was 60 runs behind West Indies before taking control on Day 3. lethbridgeherald.com