PCB appoints new acting head coach for Pakistan's red-ball team

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday appointed former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood as the acting red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men's team.

He will serve in this role until the end of his current contract in April 2026. During this period, Pakistan will play two Test series.

In an official statement, the PCB highlighted Mahmood’s vast experience in both coaching and playing.

“A seasoned cricketing mind, Azhar Mahmood steps into the role with an impressive portfolio of experience. Having served as the assistant head coach of the national side, Azhar has long been a pivotal part of the team’s strategic core,” the PCB stated.

“His deep knowledge of the game, combined with hands-on international exposure and proven success in the English county circuit, makes him exceptionally well-suited for this position,” PCB added. 

The board also praised Mahmood’s red-ball credentials, citing his two County Championship titles as proof of his leadership and tactical skills.

“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 statement further added.

The PCB expressed full confidence in Mahmood’s ability to lead the Test side, saying that under his guidance, the team is expected to grow in strength, discipline, and performance at the international level.

The 50-year-old signed a two-year contract with the PCB in April 2024 and previously served as assistant coach.

However, he was not part of the coaching staff during the home T20I series against Bangladesh in May, which Pakistan won 3-0. This change followed the appointment of Mike Hesson as the white-ball head coach.

According to sources, Hesson—who has links with Islamabad United—was reportedly looking to bring members of the franchise’s coaching team into the national setup, leading the PCB to temporarily sideline Mahmood.

It is important to mention that under Mahmood’s coaching, Pakistan will begin their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 campaign with a two-match Test series against South Africa in October-November.

The team will then travel to Bangladesh for another two-match Test series in March-April 2026, also part of their WTC campaign.

For context, former Australian all-rounder Jason Gillespie was appointed as Pakistan’s red-ball head coach on April 28, 2024.

Under his leadership, Pakistan lost 2-0 at home to Bangladesh but bounced back with a 2-1 series win against England, also at home. Gillespie later stepped down, citing internal communication issues within the PCB.