KABUL (Pajhwok): The new head coach of Afghanistan’s national cricket team has pledged to strengthen all aspects of the game, with a particular focus on technical development and the growth of Test cricket, as he begins his tenure in the country.
Englishman Richard Pybus, appointed in February this year, arrived in Afghanistan on Saturday and formally engaged with officials of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and national players during a press conference in Kabul on Sunday.
“I am very happy to be here. We will work collectively to ensure Afghan cricket progresses in every dimension,” he said, adding that improving the overall structure and performance of the team would be a key priority.
Pybus stressed that he intends to place special emphasis on Afghanistan’s Test cricket, a format he personally values and highlighted the country’s promising fast-bowling talent as an area with significant potential for further development.
At the same briefing, ACB High Performance Director Dawlat Ahmadzai said discussions with the new coach had focused on technical improvements and enhancing the skills of domestic players.
He added that efforts would be made to bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket, including long-term development plans for fast bowlers.
Afghanistan’s ODI captain Hashmatullah Shahidi welcomed the coach’s arrival, noting that unlike in the past, players no longer need to travel abroad for direct coaching interaction.
He said Pybus would be able to closely monitor domestic talent, assess player capabilities, and implement structured plans for the national side.
Shahidi confirmed that the national team has begun a four-week training camp in Kabul in preparation for upcoming fixtures against India later this year, including one Test and three ODIs.
T20 captain Ibrahim Zadran said the camp, conducted under the guidance of the new head coach, includes a strong presence of young players, allowing emerging talent to train alongside experienced cricketers and benefit from shared experience.
Afghanistan are scheduled to face India in one Test match and three ODIs in June 2026.
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