PCB appoints Ijaz Ahmed as U-19 head coach

Lahore: Former cricketer Ijaz Ahmed was appointed as the head coach of the Pakistan U-19 cricket team on a three-year contract, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Monday. 

Ijaz will also work very closely with the Pakistan U-16 and Pakistan 'A' sides and will take over the role after the conclusion of  the ACC U19 Asia Cup 2019, which will be played in Colombo from September 5-14, PCB release stated.''I am excited with this opportunity and look forward to playing my part in what are exciting times for Pakistan cricket,'' Ijaz said. 

''I have no doubts Ijaz will be make a significant contribution as a Pakistan U19 coach as the PCB has stepped up its endeavours to not only narrow the gap with international cricket but provide equal and fair opportunities to all the budding youngsters in the country'', Mudassar Nazar who was involved in the appointment along with Wasim Khan said.  

Ijaz has played 60 Tests and 250 ODIs for Pakistan and previously served as the head coach for Pakistan 'A' and U19 sides in 2009. He has also served as the assistant coach of the senior national side in the 2010 ICC World T20. Ijaz first assignment is expected to be with the 'A' team when they tour Kenya for an 8-nation tournament in September.(UNI)