Lahore, August 25, 2026: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally launched the process to appoint an “experienced and skilled” fielding coach for the national men’s cricket team, issuing an official advertisement for the position on Tuesday.
According to the criteria outlined in the advertisement, applicants must hold at least Level II cricket coaching accreditation and have a minimum of five years’ experience working in a similar capacity with elite cricketers, national sides, franchise teams or international teams.
The PCB is also seeking candidates with a strong understanding of fielding techniques, match analysis and player development. Applicants should have proven experience in monitoring and evaluating systems and processes used at the international level to improve players’ skills and performance.
The position became vacant last month following the abrupt departure of Australian specialist Shane McDermott, who had been serving as Pakistan’s all-format fielding coach.
McDermott was appointed to the position in July 2025 for an undisclosed period and was expected to remain part of Pakistan’s support staff for the Asian Games in September. However, he reportedly decided to step down from the role, although the reason for his departure was not disclosed.
The Australian coach brought extensive international experience to the position. Before joining Pakistan, he served as assistant fielding coach with Bangladesh for three years and subsequently worked with Sri Lanka in a similar capacity for another three years.
McDermott’s first assignment with Pakistan came during the team’s three-match away T20I series against Bangladesh, when he replaced Mohammad Masroor as fielding coach.
His reported departure came shortly before Pakistan’s departure for their two-match away series against the West Indies, which was scheduled from July 25 to August 6.
The PCB’s latest recruitment drive is aimed at ensuring continuity in the national team’s support structure and strengthening fielding standards ahead of a busy international schedule, including the Asian Games and other upcoming assignments.
