Amstelveen: Former Australian international Ashley Noffke has departed his position as bowling coach for the Pakistan national cricket team to assume the role of Netherlands head coach.

Noffke has agreed to a two-year contract, the Dutch cricket board announced Wednesday, with his primary objective being to guide the squad to qualification for next year's 50-over World Cup and the T20 World Cup in 2028.

“This is a talented, motivated group,” Noffke said, "and my goal is to continue that development and take the program further. My approach starts with connection, before the tactics or the plan. I can't wait to get started.”

The 49-year-old Noffke had been associated with the Pakistan setup since 2025, serving as an assistant coach and lead bowling coach, following earlier coaching stints in England, New Zealand, and his home country of Australia.

During his playing career, he represented Australia in One Day Internationals and T20 fixtures, while also featuring for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League.

Noffke succeeds Ryan Cook, who relinquished the managerial position to spend more time with his family.

The Netherlands have secured places in the past six T20 World Cup tournaments, but have reached only a single 50-over World Cup since 2011.

AP