The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood as the acting red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s national team, marking a new chapter in its ongoing search for stability and performance in Test cricket.
The announcement, made via a PCB press release on Monday, comes after a turbulent coaching carousel that has seen six head coaches in two years, all failing to produce significant results in key international matches. The last interim head coach, Aaqib Javed, stepped down after Pakistan’s underwhelming run in the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year, where he had held the dual role of coach and selector.
Azhar, a veteran of the game with a deep understanding of Pakistan’s cricketing landscape, is expected to lead the team until the end of his current contract. Known for his calm demeanor and strategic mind, Azhar brings with him a wealth of experience, including previous coaching stints with the national side and a successful playing and coaching career in England’s county circuit.
“A seasoned cricketing mind, Azhar Mahmood steps into the role with an impressive portfolio of experience,” said the PCB. “Having served as the assistant head coach of the national side, Azhar has long been a pivotal part of the team’s strategic core.”
The board highlighted Azhar’s red-ball credentials, especially his two County Championship titles, which underline his strong leadership skills, tactical vision, and commitment to excellence.
His appointment signals a move toward more specialized coaching as Pakistan looks to rebuild its red-ball strength and consistency on the global Test stage. The PCB added that it is confident that under Azhar’s guidance, the Test squad will grow in discipline, structure, and performance.
Azhar Mahmood has previously served in various coaching roles for Pakistan, including as head coach during the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in April 2024. His familiarity with the current crop of players and understanding of both domestic and international challenges make him a strong candidate to stabilize the red-ball unit.
With the team gearing up for key Test fixtures in the coming months, all eyes will now be on how Azhar Mahmood steers Pakistan’s red-ball side in this transitional phase.
