Pakistan have finally filled their Test-match vacancy, appointing Azhar Mahmood as acting red-ball head coach through to the end of his current deal. His stint is set to cover two home series – South Africa in October and Sri Lanka in December-January – giving the board a little breathing space after an unsettled 18 months in the back-room.
The 50-year-old has been around the squad since early 2024, originally joining as interim assistant coach for the white-ball tour of New Zealand. A familiar face in both dressing-room and commentary box, he played 21 Tests and 143 one-dayers for Pakistan between 1996 and 2006, finishing with 162 international wickets and three Test hundreds.
“A seasoned cricketing mind, Azhar Mahmood steps into the role with an impressive portfolio of experience,” the PCB noted in a statement. “Having served as the assistant head coach of the national side, Azhar has long been a pivotal part of the team’s strategic core. 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 went on to highlight his two County Championship titles with Surrey, calling them proof of “leadership, tactical acumen and unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Pakistan have bounced between coaches since Jason Gillespie resigned six months into the job last December. Aaqib Javed handled the following four Tests – two in South Africa, two at home against West Indies – but returned to his academy duties once that World Test Championship cycle ended. Gary Kirsten’s white-ball exit around the same period added to the churn; Mike Hesson has since taken over the limited-overs side.
The instability showed on the field. Pakistan finished last in the previous WTC table with five wins from 14, a record that explained why the board was keen to secure at least a short-term red-ball plan. Mahmood’s appointment, while provisional, provides some continuity: players already know his methods, and he has spent time shaping the current bowling group.
Former captain Misbah-ul-Haq offered quiet approval on a local TV panel: “Azhar understands the culture and, importantly, the expectations. The timing makes sense – you’ve got two home series where conditions are familiar.”
Whether Mahmood becomes a long-term option remains open. The PCB is expected to review the position early next year, once the Sri Lanka series is wrapped up and the next WTC cycle is clearer. For now, the priority is steadying a side that has lurched between ideas and personnel. If Mahmood can deliver results – or at least a coherent style of play – the conversation about permanence will take care of itself.
