Ashley Noffke Resigns as Pakistan Bowling Coach, Set to Take Charge of Netherlands

PCB advertises vacancy after Australian coach agrees two-year deal with KNCB; Noffke to remain with Pakistan for Asian Games

Hamid Khan Wazir

LAHORE: In a surprise development, former Australia pacer Ashley Noffke has stepped down as Pakistan’s white-ball bowling coach after around 16 months in the role, despite no recent indication that he was preparing to leave. Noffke’s departure follows his appointment as head coach of the Netherlands, prompting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to begin the search for his replacement.

The Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) has appointed the 49-year-old Noffke on an initial two-year contract running until the end of 2028. He will take charge of the Netherlands’ campaigns to qualify for the 2027 ODI World Cup and 2028 T20 World Cup, succeeding Ryan Cook.

Noffke joined Pakistan’s coaching set-up in May 2025 as assistant coach and bowling lead under white-ball head coach Mike Hesson. He was later given additional responsibility as interim Test bowling coach during Pakistan’s tour of England in September 2026, replacing Umar Gul after the team lost the first two Tests at Headingley and Lord’s. Pakistan subsequently lost the third Test at Edgbaston by eight wickets to suffer a 3-0 series whitewash.

Despite leaving his coaching position, Noffke will remain with the Pakistan contingent for the 2026 Asian Games, with the men’s team scheduled to enter the cricket competition at the quarter-final stage on September 28. The Pakistan squad is due to depart Karachi on Thursday.

Following Noffke’s departure, the PCB has advertised the vacant bowling coach position for the national men’s team. The board is seeking an experienced coach with Level III cricket coaching accreditation and at least five years of experience working with elite cricketers or national/international teams. Applications will remain open until October 8.

Noffke represented Australia in one ODI and two T20Is during his playing career before moving into coaching. He has subsequently held coaching roles in Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the United Kingdom. His move to the Netherlands now leaves the PCB tasked with appointing a new specialist to its men’s national coaching staff.