Azhar Mahmood Steps Up as Interim Test Coach for Pakistan After Coaching Shake-Up

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the appointment of Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach for their Test team. This decision comes after a series of changes in the coaching staff.

Mahmood, a veteran of Pakistan cricket with 21 Test appearances and 143 ODIs, will oversee the red-ball squad until his contract with the PCB concludes.

Mahmood was brought in as the assistant coach last year © Getty

Mahmood, aged 50, initially joined the team as an assistant coach across all formats last year. However, recent departures have reshaped the coaching structure. Gary Kirsten resigned from his position as the white-ball head coach in October 2024, and Test head coach Jason Gillespie soon followed suit.

Following Gillespie's departure, 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 extend until his contract ends in April 2026. His first major challenge will be a home series against South Africa later this year.

The PCB expressed confidence in Mahmood's capabilities, stating, "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 board further highlighted Mahmood's achievements, noting, "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."