Former Pakistan leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed says he would gladly return to coach the national team.
However, he remains concerned about the lack of stability within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Mushtaq, who currently serves as Bangladesh’s spin-bowling coach, said coaches need security and backing to perform their duties effectively.
Speaking on the BBC Stumped Podcast, he said he would be interested in taking up the Pakistan coaching job, particularly at the current stage.
But he admitted that recent decisions by the PCB had made him cautious.
Mushtaq pointed to the sudden removal of coaches and players during Pakistan’s ongoing Test tour of England.
The PCB made major changes after Pakistan lost the first two Tests of the three-match series.
Seven players were sent back to Pakistan, including Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha.
The board also removed coaches Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul before the England tour had concluded.
White-ball coach Mike Hesson’s coaching setup was then handed responsibility for the final Test.
Mushtaq criticised the timing of the changes and said such decisions should not be taken during an ongoing tour.
He said the treatment of Sarfaraz and Gul was particularly disappointing.
Both former Pakistan cricketers have served the national side in important roles. Sarfaraz also captained Pakistan.
According to Mushtaq, coaches should be allowed to complete a series before the PCB decides whether changes are necessary.
He also warned that frequent dismissals can discourage former Pakistan players from returning to the national setup.
Mushtaq said he would be happy to serve Pakistan if the board provides coaches with respect, stability and sufficient time.
He believes Pakistan has enough talent to develop a competitive team.
The former leg-spinner said his priority would be to improve players’ confidence and build a united side capable of competing against top international teams.
Mushtaq has previously worked with Pakistan in several coaching roles.
He joined the national setup as a bowling consultant in 2014 and remained until 2016.
He returned in 2020 as Pakistan’s spin-bowling coach.
For now, Mushtaq remains with Bangladesh.
But he made it clear that he would consider returning to Pakistan if the PCB can offer coaches greater stability and confidence in their positions.
