Lahore – June 24, 2025: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach of the national red-ball (Test) team, ahead of the upcoming Test series. The decision comes as part of PCB’s continued effort to restructure the coaching setup and bring experienced professionals to the forefront of Pakistan’s cricket revival.
Azhar, a former all-rounder and seasoned bowling coach, brings a wealth of international and franchise coaching experience to the role.
PCB’s Strategic Coaching Overhaul
In a press statement, the PCB said the appointment is interim and part of a broader plan to streamline coaching assignments across formats.
“Azhar Mahmood has been appointed acting head coach for red-ball cricket. His experience as a player and coach at the highest level makes him a strong candidate to guide the Test squad,” the statement read.
Azhar’s immediate task will be preparing the team for Pakistan’s upcoming Test series, where squad selection, bowling strategies, and mental readiness will be key focus areas.
Azhar Mahmood: From Player to Coach
- Test career: 21 matches, over 900 runs and 39 wickets
- ODI career: 143 matches, known for match-winning all-round performances
- Coaching roles:
- Pakistan bowling coach (2016–2019)
- Various T20 leagues including PSL, BBL, and CPL
Azhar is widely respected for his strategic acumen and mentorship, especially with younger bowlers like Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Naseem Shah.
Current Team Context
The red-ball team is in a transitional phase, with the PCB aiming to rebuild a consistent Test side after mixed performances in recent series. The board is expected to announce a permanent head coach after evaluations later this year.
Azhar’s appointment signals a preference for familiar faces and continuity in leadership, as opposed to bringing in foreign coaching talent in the short term.
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