Yasir Arafat, a distinguished former Test all-rounder, is set to assume the crucial role of High-Performance Coach for the Pakistan cricket team. Aged 41, Yasir boasts a modest yet impactful international playing career, representing Pakistan in three Tests, 11 ODIs, and 13 T20Is. What sets him apart is his coaching acumen, having completed the prestigious ECB Level 4 coaching course at Loughborough University, a distinction that makes him the first Pakistani Test cricketer to achieve such recognition.
Yasir’s coaching journey has seen him contribute to various teams and leagues globally. He previously served as a bowling coach for English county teams Sussex and Surrey, as well as the Perth Scorchers in Australia’s Big Bash League. His experience extends to international coaching, having worked with the Hong Kong national team in a bowling coach capacity. This diverse coaching background showcases his versatility and expertise in honing cricketing talent across different settings.
Not just confined to coaching, Yasir has actively participated in T20 leagues around the world, including notable stints with teams like Otago and Canterbury in New Zealand’s domestic T20 league. This firsthand experience as a player in various leagues provides him with valuable insights that can benefit the players under his guidance.
Yasir’s new role involves preparing the Pakistan cricket team for the challenging five T20Is against New Zealand scheduled from January 12 to 21, 2024. His tenure commences with a five-day camp in Lahore from December 29 to January 2, where he will serve as the camp commandant, overseeing the team’s preparations for the upcoming tour. With his wealth of experience, both as a player and a coach, Yasir Arafat brings a holistic approach to nurturing and enhancing the performance of the Pakistan cricket team.
