Former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood was on Monday (June 30, 2025) elevated to the put up of Pakistan’s acting red-ball head coach till the conclusion of his present contract, which runs till April subsequent 12 months.
Mahmood had signed a two-year contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board in April final 12 months as assistant coach throughout codecs together with Australia’s Jason Gillespie (Tests) and South Africa’s Gary Kirsten (restricted overs), who’ve each moved on.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board today announces Azhar Mahmood as the acting red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s team. Azhar will serve in this role until the conclusion of his current contract,” the PCB mentioned in a press release.
“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.
“His deep information of the sport, mixed with hands-on worldwide publicity and confirmed success within the English county circuit, make him exceptionally well-suited for this place,” the PCB added.
PCB highlighted Mahmood’s achievements in winning County Championship titles for Surrey as their assistant coach.
“His red-ball pedigree is underscored by two County Championship titles — an achievement that speaks volumes about his management, tactical acumen and unwavering dedication to excellence,” it said.
“The PCB is assured that underneath Azhar’s steerage, the red-ball squad will proceed to develop in power, self-discipline and efficiency on the worldwide stage,” the board added.
The 50-year-old Mahmood performed 21 Tests and 143 ODIs for Pakistan between 1996 and 2007.
