Qalandars won back-to-back PSL titles in 2022 and 2023 before stumbling this year and finishing last. Aaqib’s departure has left a vacancy in the franchise, one they want to ensure is filled well before the PSL begins in April next year. Gough, who retired in 2006 as England’s leading ODI wicket-taker (and remains No. 2 in the list behind James Anderson) is understood to be interested in the role, with the GSL seen as a useful opportunity. It will allow you to get your feet under the table before a permanent decision is made.
“It is an absolute honor to have been asked by the Lahore Qalandars to be the head coach of the upcoming Global Super League in Guyana,” Gough said in a statement. “I am very excited about this opportunity because I have been fortunate enough to work with the Qalandars in Lahore on several occasions, helping them with their PDP. [player development programme]. “We know Lahore Qalandars is about giving young players opportunities they have never had before – developing their skills and turning them into players who can represent the Qalandars and hopefully make Pakistan cricket proud.”
Qalandars co-owner Sameen Rana said Gough’s vision aligned “perfectly with our commitment to player development”, referring to the appointment as the start of “a new journey”.
The GSL will be contested by five teams. The Qalandars are joined by T20 Blast’s Hampshire Hawks, BPL’s Rangpur Riders, Australia’s Victoria and hosts Guyana Amazon Warriors. The final will take place on December 7.
