Azhar Mahmood Appointed Acting Head Coach for Pakistan’s Red-Ball Cricket Team
Azhar Mahmood has been officially named as the acting head coach of Pakistan’s red-ball cricket team, a move confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and endorsed on the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) website. He will serve in the role until the conclusion of his current contract, overseeing the national side as it prepares for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship cycle.
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Pakistan’s Test squad, which is gearing up to host South Africa later this year for a two-match home series. This series will mark Pakistan’s first assignment in the new WTC cycle and a key test of Mahmood’s leadership.
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A former Pakistan all-rounder with years of international and domestic experience, Azhar Mahmood has been a mainstay in the team’s coaching setup, previously serving as both the bowling coach and assistant head coach. His elevation to the red-ball helm reflects the board’s confidence in his deep cricketing knowledge and strategic insight.
“Azhar brings an impressive portfolio to this role,” the PCB stated in its official release. “Having served as a central figure in the team’s strategic core, he possesses not only technical expertise but also hands-on international experience and a proven track record in county cricket.”
Mahmood’s coaching credentials are bolstered by a successful stint in England’s county circuit, where he was part of two County Championship title-winning teams. His leadership and tactical sharpness in the red-ball format have been praised as critical assets in rebuilding and strengthening the national Test side.
This appointment also marks a continuation of Pakistan’s internal restructuring of its coaching staff. Former fast bowler and 1992 World Cup winner Aaqib Javed had been temporarily handling red-ball coaching duties following the departure of Australian Jason Gillespie late last year.
With Pakistan aiming to re-establish its competitiveness in Test cricket, Mahmood’s appointment signals a commitment to stability and experienced leadership. The PCB expressed optimism that under his stewardship, the team will enhance its discipline, performance, and standing in global red-ball cricket.
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