Pakistan: Mark Coles resigns as head coach of women's cricket team


Devdiscourse News Desk | Islamabad | Updated: 03-10-2019 15:21 IST | Created: 03-10-2019 15:05 IST
Pakistan: Mark Coles resigns as head coach of women's cricket team
Image Credit: Twitter (@TheRealPCB)
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The head coach of Pakistan's Women Cricket team has resigned due to some family reasons and will be returning to New Zealand next week. Iqbal Imam has been appointed as interim head coach by Pakistan Cricket Board for the upcoming series against Bangladesh which will be played from 26 October to 4 November in Lahore.

Coles took over the responsibilities in October 2017 and had a contract until the end of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Australia 2020 to be held from 21 February to 8 March.

Mark Coles said: “It is with a very heavy heart that I have decided to step down from my coaching role, something which I had enjoyed tremendously. However, at this time my family responsibilities are such that they need my undivided attention and focus.

“I have been thinking about this for some time and taking into account Pakistan has some critical assignments in the next few months, I thought it was fair to the side I convey my decision to the Pakistan Cricket Board so that they have enough time to find a replacement.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay in Lahore and working with the women’s team as well as all those who are associated with women’s cricket. It has been particularly pleasing to see some of the girls grow in stature and make their team and country proud.

“I will miss working with all these girls and will always remain their supporter and well-wisher. I have no doubts the Pakistan national women’s team will continue to make upward progress.”

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “I am fully aware of Mark’s personal reasons and appreciate that despite pressing matters, he remained committed to Pakistan and the national women’s team. I would like to place on record our thanks to Mark for his contribution during his tenure.

“But the family has to come first and in this relation, I understand and accept the reasons for his departure, though it is sad to see him leave at a time when the team has started to show signs of significant improvement.”

The Pakistan national women’s team achieved major results during Coles’ tenure as head coach. They are presently sitting fifth in the ICC Women’s Championship.

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