Azhar Mahmood Appointed as Acting Head Coach of Pakistan Test Cricket Team

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach of Pakistan’s Test cricket team. Mahmood, a seasoned cricketer who has played 21 Tests and 143 ODIs for Pakistan, will take charge of the red-ball team until the completion of his contract with the PCB in April 2026.

Mahmood’s Journey to Head Coach

Azhar Mahmood, who was brought on board as an assistant coach in 2024, will now step up to lead Pakistan’s Test team. His appointment comes after the departure of Gary Kirsten, who resigned as head coach of the white-ball team in October 2024. Shortly after, Test coach Jason Gillespie also left his post, prompting the PCB to make temporary coaching changes.

Aquib Javed, a former pacer, briefly took over as interim coach for Pakistan’s tour to South Africa in late 2024. In May 2025, the PCB appointed Mike Hesson as the new head coach for the white-ball team. With these transitions, Mahmood’s appointment as the head coach of the Test side fills the void, with a focus on strengthening the red-ball squad.

Mahmood’s Coaching Experience

Azhar Mahmood brings a wealth of cricketing experience and expertise to the role. Not only has he excelled as a player, but his proven success in the English county circuit further enhances his credentials as a coach. Mahmood’s experience and leadership skills are expected to positively impact Pakistan’s red-ball cricket.

The PCB praised Mahmood’s deep understanding of the game, noting his hands-on international exposure and success in the County Championship. Mahmood has won two County Championship titles, a testament to his tactical acumen, leadership qualities, and dedication to excellence. This success on the county circuit reinforces his ability to guide Pakistan’s Test team to new heights.

Mahmood’s First Task as Test Head Coach

Azhar Mahmood’s first assignment as head coach will be overseeing the home series against South Africa later this year. This series presents a critical opportunity for Mahmood to demonstrate his coaching abilities and set the tone for Pakistan’s future in Test cricket.

The PCB expressed full confidence in Mahmood’s leadership and believes that under his guidance, the red-ball team will continue to evolve and improve, both in strength and performance on the global stage. With his extensive knowledge of red-ball cricket, Mahmood’s appointment signals a new era for Pakistan’s Test team as they look to build on past successes and strengthen their standing in international cricket.

Conclusion

Azhar Mahmood’s appointment as acting head coach of Pakistan’s Test team is a significant move for the PCB, as they seek to improve the team’s performance and build a solid foundation for the future. With his vast experience and success in both domestic and international cricket, Mahmood is well-equipped to lead Pakistan’s red-ball squad through this crucial period.