Pakistan women team head coach steps down, Iqbal Imam replaces as interim head

• Coles contract was to serve until ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Australia 2020.
• The New Zealander steps down citing personal reasons.

Mark Coles has stepped down as Pakistan national women’s team head coach, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) informed on Thursday.

Coles decided to step down citing family reasons and will be returning to New Zealand in the coming days. The PCB has appointed batting coach Iqbal Imam as interim head coach for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, which will be played from 26 October to 4 November in Lahore.

“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,” said Coles in a statement.

Coles took over the reins of Pakistan women cricket in October 2017 and was supposed to serve until the end of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Australia 2020 to be held from 21 February to 8 March.

“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,” said PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan.

The recruitment process for Coles’ successor will commence shortly.