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June 30, 2025

Azhar Mahmood named Pakistan head coach amid red-ball shake-up

Azhar Mahmood named Pakistan head coach amid red-ball shake-up
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Former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has been appointed as Pakistan’s new red-ball head coach, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) continues restructuring its coaching hierarchy ahead of key Test and first-class fixtures this year.

Azhar, who previously served as Pakistan’s bowling coach (2016–2019) and interim head coach during the 2024 T20I series against New Zealand, is stepping into a vital role on Pakistan’s red-ball staff. 

His familiarity with domestic and international players, alongside experience in PSL coaching roles, positions him as a trusted leader in a tumultuous period for Pakistan’s Test programme.

Coaching carousel: stats & context

  • The PCB has endured a turbulent two years, with six head coaches across formats since 2023, highlighting a lack of continuity (Aaqib Javed’s interim role now takes over after the exits of Jason Gillespie and others).
     
  • According to Tribune, Mahmood had been shortlisted alongside foreign candidates like Mike Hesson during the PCB’s late-spring coaching survey, but was initially omitted from white-ball assignments in May 2025.
     
  • Following the departure of Aaqib Javed from the interim T20 and red-ball role, the PCB’s return to a local coach for Test cricket signals a shift in strategy .

Under Mahmood, Pakistan aims to stabilise its Test performance amid a challenging ICC World Test Championship cycle. Known for his technical sharpness and strategic insight, he faces the task of rebuilding Pakistan’s red-ball identity and consistency—essential ahead of key series against teams ranging from Bangladesh to England and South Africa.

What lies ahead

  • New coaching structure: Mahmood will lead Test operations, supported by local and internationally recruited assistants.
     
  • Awaiting confirmation: PCB is expected to announce the full red-ball coaching team ahead of the home series against England and Bangladesh.
     
  • Performance focus: Mahmood’s first assignment will be rebuilding Pakistan’s Test results in the WTC 2025–27 cycle, beginning with the Bangladesh Tests in August.

Azhar Mahmood’s appointment marks Pakistan’s continued exploration of local coaching talent at board level, aiming to balance consistency with fresh insight. His deep experience with fast bowlers and Test pedigree sets a promising foundation—but the WTC campaign ahead will be his true proving ground.


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