LAHORE: Former Australia cricketer Ashley Noffke has left his role as Pakistan’s white-ball bowling coach after being appointed head coach of the Netherlands men’s cricket team on a two-year contract.
The Netherlands Cricket Board confirmed Noffke’s appointment after Ryan Cook stepped down from the position. The 49-year-old will lead the Dutch side through upcoming World Cup qualification campaigns in both white-ball formats.
Move follows Pakistan departure
Noffke informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of his decision to leave the bowling coach position after around 16 months with the national team.
He was appointed Pakistan’s white-ball bowling coach in May 2025 as part of the coaching setup led by head coach Mike Hesson. During Pakistan’s tour of England in September 2026, he was also given additional responsibility as interim Test bowling coach following changes in the team management.
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Noffke remained involved with Pakistan during the 2026 Asian Games before taking up the Netherlands role. The PCB has since started the process of finding his replacement and advertised the bowling coach vacancy.
Netherlands targets World Cup qualification
Noffke brings experience from coaching roles in Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the United Kingdom after transitioning into coaching following his international playing career.
Speaking after his appointment, Noffke said developing a strong connection with players would be his first priority.
“My approach starts with connection, before the tactic or the plan,” Noffke said.
The Netherlands have established themselves as a regular presence at global tournaments, featuring in the 2023 ODI World Cup and securing victories over Bangladesh and South Africa.
The Dutch team has also qualified for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier after securing a top-four finish through the Cricket World Cup League 2 pathway. They remain in contention for qualification for the 2028 T20 World Cup.
Noffke represented Australia in one ODI and two T20 internationals during his playing career.
