Shaun Tait returns to Pakistan’s coaching setup as the PCB replaces Ashley Noffke ahead of the upcoming Sri Lanka T20I series and ODI tri-series.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has brought former Australia fast bowler Shaun Tait back into the national team setup as the new bowling coach. He replaces Ashley Noffke, who has stepped down after around 16 months in the position.
The coaching change was announced with Pakistan’s squads for the upcoming white-ball assignments. The national side is scheduled to face Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series before featuring in an ODI tri-series involving Sri Lanka and England.
Noffke’s departure comes after his tenure with Pakistan’s white-ball team. The former Australian pacer made one ODI and two T20I appearances for his country during his playing career. He was also part of Pakistan’s setup during the 2026 Asian Games before moving on from the coaching role.
Pakistan reached the final of the men’s cricket competition at the Asian Games but finished with the silver medal after losing to India. The result marked Pakistan’s first-ever medal in men’s cricket at the continental event.
Tait returns to a role he has previously held with Pakistan. The 43-year-old played three Tests, 35 ODIs and 21 T20Is for Australia and has extensive experience working with fast bowlers.
His previous spell as Pakistan’s bowling coach began ahead of Australia’s tour of Pakistan in March 2022. He remained with the national team until the home series against New Zealand in January 2023. His initial contract was for one year and was not extended following changes within the PCB.
Before returning to Pakistan, Tait most recently worked with Bangladesh’s fast-bowling group. His familiarity with Pakistan’s players and coaching environment is expected to help him settle quickly into the role.
Pakistan’s current management team is headed by manager Naveed Akram Cheema and head coach Mike Hesson. The support staff also includes batting coach Michael Smith, fielding coach Mansoor Amjad, strength and conditioning coach Grant Luden, physiotherapist Muhammad Tahir and other specialist members.