Woolmer takes over as Pakistan coach

New Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer

Pakistan have parted company with coach Javed Miandad and replaced him with former South Africa boss Bob Woolmer.

Miandad took over the national team reins for the third time following last year’s World Cup and was contracted until April 2005.

However, Miandad was unable to prevent Pakistan from suffering their first-ever Test series loss at home to arch-rivals India recently, and the Pakistan Cricket Board have decided it was time for a change.

“In order to raise the level of performance of the national team by introducing advanced technological methods of coaching, it has been decided to employ the services of the renowned coach, Mr Bob Woolmer, who will arrive in Pakistan on July 2, 2004,” a PCB statement read.

Woolmer famously used technology during the 1999 World Cup when South Africa team captain Hansie Cronje wore an earpiece so he could receive instructions from his coach during a match against India.

“Mr Woolmer is a pioneer in advanced coaching methods and is recognised as having brought Warwickshire and South Africa to leading positions in their respective ranks,” the statement continued.

The PCB also claim to have cut their budget in appointing Woolmer.

The statement added: “Mr Woolmer's terms of contract have been agreed and his emoluments would be approximately the same as those paid to Mr Javed Miandad in his contract, if anything slightly less.”

The PCB had wanted to retain the services of Miandad in a different capacity but the former Pakistan captain declined the invitation for personal reasons.

“The PCB had hoped that Mr Miandad would agree to serve as national advisor on cricket development in which his talents would be used to optimum effect,” concluded the statement.

“His contribution to the national team has been deeply appreciated.

“He has, for personal reasons, not been able to accept the assignment and the terms of his contract are being fully respected.”