Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis step down from roles

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Since 2019, Misbah-ul Haq was Pakistan's head coach.

Misbah-ul Haq, Pakistan's head coach, and Waqar Younis, the bowling coach have resigned.

For the series against New Zealand, Saqlain Mushtaq (off-spinner) and Abdul Razzaq (all-rounder) have been appointed interim coaches.

Misbah and Waqar were in their respective roles from September 2019, and still had one year on their contracts.

Both said that the Covid-19 pandemic was hard on their bodies.

Former captain Misbah said, "The quarantine in Jamaica after the West Indies series gave me an opportunity to reflect upon the past 24 months and the schedule for international cricket ahead."

"Considering the fact that I would have to continue to spend significant time away from my family, and that it was in a bio-secure setting, I have decided that I will step down from this role."

Waqar said that working with Pakistani bowlers was the most rewarding as they are now showing progress. The bio-secure environment has had an impact on the game, something that we never had during our playing days.

New Zealand will face Pakistan on its own soil in three one day internationals and five T20s. The first ODI will take place on 17 September. This is New Zealand's 18th visit to Pakistan.