By becoming the first female speed bowling coach of the PSL franchise Multan Sultans, Atherine Dalton makes history.

In a recent development for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Multan Sultans have hired Catherine Dalton as their fast-bowling coach, making her the league’s first female coach and the first woman to train fast-bowling for a top-tier men’s team. Later today, the official announcement is anticipated.

Catherine Dalton, a 30-year-old Englishwoman who has become a citizen of Ireland since 2015, is no stranger to Pakistan; she has been there twice previously. In her earlier visits, she developed several Under-19 players in addition to closely working with a number of fast bowlers, such as Mohammad Ilyas, Sameen Gul, and Arshad Iqbal.

Dalton, who holds a Level 3 Advanced Coach certification from the ECB, has a wealth of teaching experience. He has held leadership roles at the national fast-bowling academy in the UK and the Ultimate Pace Foundation in India. Her background includes working with well-known athletes like Deepak Chahar. Notably, Dalton worked with Ian Pont and Andre Nel as the National Fast-Bowling Academy’s assistant head coaches.

Dalton expressed her delight about her new position to ESPNcricinfo, saying, “Having worked in Pakistan with some of the Multan Sultan players on two previous visits, I am really thrilled to be officially joining up with the franchise at the PSL.”

“I’m aware of the historical significance of a female fast-bowling coach holding a position with a significant men’s T20 franchise. I am incredibly grateful for the chance and can’t wait to maybe contribute to changing things on several levels,” she continued.

Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen had high hopes for Dalton’s ability.

Ali Tareen, the proprietor of the PSL team Multan Sultans, also offered his thoughts on Catherine Dalton’s historic signing. For the past five years, according to Tareen, Dalton has played a crucial role in the franchise’s player development program. The owner has a sense of trust in her after closely observing how well she handles with young players and aids in their improvement.

“For almost five years now, Catherine has been a part of our player-development program. I have firsthand experience with how she has enhanced players. I’ve always known she would excel as a fast-bowling coach. I’m really delighted she took her first shot at the Sultans,” Tareen said.

Multan Sultans are preparing for another thrilling season with Catherine Dalton as their fast-bowling coach, ready to make history in the world of cricket coaching. The PSL has been confirmed to run from February 8 through March 24, 2024.