Michael Smith Set to Lead Pakistan’s Batting Unit

Pakistan have named former South African first-class cricketer and seasoned coach Michael Smith as the new batting coach of the men’s national side. The appointment was officially announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday.

The 46-year-old has signed a two-year deal and will oversee batting development in both Test cricket and the limited-overs formats.

During his professional career from 2003 to 2013, Smith played 89 first-class matches, 72 List A games and 16 T20 fixtures.

He also arrives with a strong coaching background. In the Pakistan Super League, Smith has worked with Islamabad United and Karachi Kings, while serving as assistant coach of Multan Sultans during the current season.

Beyond the PSL, he has held batting coaching roles with Australia’s Hobart Hurricanes and Cricket Tasmania. He has also provided coaching consultancy services for South Africa’s KZN Inland and Eastern Province teams.

Smith is set to formally begin his role with Pakistan ahead of the three-Test series against England, which is scheduled to start on 19 August.

Pakistan are currently involved in a Test series against the West Indies and sit ninth in the ICC World Test Championship standings.