Pakistan set to name Azhar Mahmood as new red-ball coach

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly exploring the possibility of appointing a new head coach for the men's Test team. According to a report by Geo News, former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, who previously served as an assistant coach, has emerged as a strong candidate for the red-ball coaching role.

Jason Gillespie stepped down from his role as red-ball head coach, following internal miscommunication within the Pakistan Cricket Board. The PCB appointed former fast bowler Aqib Javed as the interim head coach for the two-match Test series against South Africa, where they suffered a whitewash.

Azhar Mahmood to Be Appointed Pakistan Red-Ball Coach

According to Geo News, Azhar Mahmood, who signed a two-year coaching deal with the Pakistan Cricket Board in April 2024, is being considered for a key role in the Test setup.

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Azhar Mahmood previously served as an assistant coach for the national team. However, he was left out of the coaching staff for the recent T20I series against Bangladesh after Mike Hesson was appointed as the white-ball head coach.

The PCB is now looking to make use of Mahmood's ongoing contract by possibly appointing him as the head coach of the red-ball team.

"With his contract still in effect, the PCB is exploring the possibility of reassigning Mahmood to a prominent role within the Test setup," the report read.

Pakistan to Play Upcoming Test Series Against South Africa and Bangladesh

Pakistan will play their next two Test series against South Africa and Bangladesh, both falling within the remaining duration of Azhar Mahmood’s current contract.

His appointment as head coach is seen as timely. According to the report, an official announcement regarding his role is expected in the coming weeks.

Earlier this month, Mahmood confirmed his interest in becoming Pakistan’s head coach. In an interview, he stated that he would apply for the position.

“I’m definitely going to apply for the Pakistan team head coach role,” Mahmood stated.

Azhar Mahmood made his international debut in 1996. The all-rounder featured in 21 Tests and 143 ODIs for Pakistan. He scored over 900 runs and took 39 wickets in Tests, while amassing more than 1,500 runs and claiming 123 wickets in ODIs.

After retiring, he played in various global T20 leagues before transitioning into coaching, serving the Pakistan national team and assisting several T20 franchises around the world.

Pakistan Known for Frequent Head Coach Changes

Pakistan have a reputation for frequently changing their head coaches. Following Misbah-ul-Haq’s exit in 2021, Saqlain Mushtaq served until 2023. Grant Bradburn was then given the role but resigned after Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-finals of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup.

Mohammad Hafeez was named interim coach after Bradburn’s departure. The PCB then appointed Jason Gillespie as the red-ball head coach on April 28, 2024.

Gillespie’s stint began with a disappointing 2-0 home series loss to Bangladesh, but he guided Pakistan to a 2-1 series win against England shortly after, helping the side bounce back.

Also read: Team India left in shock during training session in England after tragic plane crash news