Daijiworld Media Network- Lahore

Lahore, Jun 30: In a key development for Pakistan cricket, former international all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has been appointed as the acting red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men's national team, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Monday.

The appointment is valid until the completion of his current contract, which runs through April 2026. Azhar, 50, had earlier signed a two-year deal with PCB as assistant coach across formats, joining a coaching setup that included Jason Gillespie for Tests and Gary Kirsten for white-ball formats—both of whom have since moved on.

In its official release, the PCB said, “Azhar Mahmood will serve as the acting red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s team until the end of his current contract. His wealth of experience and understanding of the modern game will be invaluable for our red-ball ambitions.”

A seasoned figure in world cricket, Azhar’s credentials include 21 Test matches and 143 ODIs for Pakistan between 1996 and 2007. Post-retirement, he carved a strong coaching profile, notably with English county side Surrey, where he helped secure two County Championship titles as assistant coach—a feat the PCB says reflects his strategic prowess and leadership qualities.

Highlighting his seamless transition from player to coach, the board added, “Azhar has remained an integral part of Pakistan’s coaching structure and brings with him deep insights, both tactically and technically, particularly in red-ball cricket.”

The PCB expressed full confidence in Mahmood’s ability to nurture and elevate the Test squad, stating, “Under Azhar’s guidance, the red-ball team will continue its upward trajectory in terms of performance, discipline and global competitiveness.”

Azhar’s immediate assignment is expected to be Pakistan’s upcoming Test engagements, where his coaching style and tactical inputs will come under close scrutiny as Pakistan rebuilds and refocuses its red-ball ambitions.