Ashley Noffke resigns as Pakistan bowling coach to take up Netherlands head coach role

Ashley Noffke has resigned as Pakistan‘s bowling coach and been appointed head coach of the Netherlands men’s team on a two-year contract running through the end of 2028. The announcement was confirmed on Wednesday, September 23, with Noffke, 49, taking over from Ryan Cook, who stepped down to spend more time with his family.

Noffke joined Pakistan’s coaching setup in May 2025 as part of Mike Hesson’s backroom staff. During his approximately 16 months in the role, he was part of the support structure that guided Pakistan to the 2026 T20 World Cup Super 8s and the 2025 Asia Cup final. He also served as interim Test bowling coach during Pakistan’s England tour in August 2026. Despite his resignation, Noffke will remain with Pakistan through the quarter-final stage of the 2026 Asian Games, with Pakistan’s entry into that stage scheduled for September 28.

What will Noffke’s brief be with the Netherlands?

Noffke’s primary targets with the Netherlands are guiding the side through 2027 ODI World Cup qualification and the 2028 T20 World Cup qualification process. The Netherlands have established themselves as a regular presence at T20 World Cups in recent years, and the new head coach is expected to build on that standing.

“I’m looking forward to working with the Dutch men’s team, which has become a fixture at the T20 World Cups. This is a talented, motivated group, and my goal is to help continue that development and move the programme forward. My approach starts with connection before the tactic or the plan. I can’t wait to get started,” Noffke said in a statement.

“Noffke brings global experience and fourteen championships to this role, and his belief that connection comes before tactics will resonate with this group. We thank Ryan Cook for the huge strides he made with the men’s programme, technically, tactically and in terms of fitness. Noffke doesn’t inherit talent and hope for the best. He builds the environment that talent needs to last, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have him leading that work,” KNCB CEO Huib van Walsem stated.

What coaching and playing experience does Noffke bring to the role?

Noffke is a former Australian international who played 1 ODI and 2 T20Is at the highest level. His first-class career produced 3,766 runs and 386 wickets, giving him a rounded understanding of the game from both disciplines.

His coaching record spans multiple formats and competitions. He won the WBBL title with Brisbane Heat and earned two successive Coach of the Year awards. He also guided Queensland Fire to the WNCL championship and led London Spirit to their maiden Hundred title. Before joining Pakistan in 2025, he led the Otago men’s programme in New Zealand.