Azhar Mahmood Named Interim Test Coach for Pakistan

Azhar Mahmood Appointed Acting Head Coach of Pakistan's Test Team

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the appointment of Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach for their Test team. Mahmood, a veteran of 21 Tests and 143 ODIs for Pakistan, will oversee the red-ball side until his contract with the PCB concludes.

Azhar Mahmood, now acting head coach, previously served as assistant coach.

Mahmood, 50, initially joined the team as an assistant coach across all formats last year. This decision follows a series of coaching changes, including Gary Kirsten's departure as the white-ball head coach in October 2024 and Jason Gillespie's subsequent resignation as Test head coach.

Following Gillespie's exit, former pacer Aquib Javed briefly took charge for the South African tour at the end of the previous year. In May, the PCB appointed Mike Hesson as their new white-ball coach. Mahmood's tenure as the Test team's acting head coach will last until the end of his contract in April 2026. His first major assignment will be a home series against South Africa scheduled later this year.

The PCB released a statement emphasizing Mahmood's qualifications: "His deep knowledge of the game, combined with hands-on international exposure and proven success in the English county circuit, make him exceptionally well-suited for this position."

The statement continued, "His red-ball pedigree is underscored by two County Championship titles - an achievement that speaks volumes about his leadership, tactical acumen, and unwavering commitment to excellence. The PCB is confident that under Azhar's guidance, the red-ball squad will continue to grow in strength, discipline, and performance on the global stage."