Multan Sultans of the Pakistan Super League are going to appoint former England international Alex Hartley as their specialty spin bowling coach.
Alex Hartley has been named as the spin bowling specialist for the Multan Sultans, a well-known side in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), in a historic appointment that is poised to revolutionise gender roles in the world of cricket. This historic appointment dispels the long-held myth that only men can coach men’s teams and represents a major advancement for women in cricket.
The name Alex Hartley is one that cricket fans all over the world connect with. As the winner of the 2017 Women’s World Cup and a former spinner for England, she has established herself in the cricket world. But she’s about to embark on what could be her most innovative project to date.
Hartley is poised to become the first female coach in the history of professional men’s cricket. Hartley has a plethora of expertise and knowledge to her new position from a brilliant playing career that included winning a World Cup and representing her country. Her inspirational journey from a successful international player to a trailblazing coach will undoubtedly provide opportunities for more women to coach cricket.
This changing tendency is demonstrated by the Multan Sultans’ decision to select Alex Hartley as their spin bowling specialist. It’s a definite sign that cricket teams are realising the value of varied viewpoints and the priceless contributions that female coaches can offer the sport.
The timing of Hartley’s appointment is especially noteworthy given that Adil Rashid, a notable English leg-spinner, played for the Multan Sultans in the last PSL season. If Rashid is selected to play for the club next season, Hartley may find herself working closely with him as a coach.
Ali Tareen, the Multan Sultans’ Managing Director, has been a prominent champion for breaking down gender boundaries in cricket. He recognises the importance of achieving gender equality in a sport that has traditionally been dominated by men. Tareen also emphasised the need of having female coaches on professional teams.
