PCB appoint Azhar Mahmood as acting head coach of Test team

The Pakistan Cricket Board have appointed Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach of their Test team. Mahmood, who has played 21 Tests and 143 ODIs for Pakistan, will be in charge of the red-ball side until the end of his contract with the PCB.

The 50-year-old was first brought on board as the assistant coach last year across formats. However, Gary Kirsten quit as the white-ball head coach in October 2024 and was soon followed by Test head coach Jason Gillespie.

Following Gillespie's departure, former pacer Aquib Javed took charge for the South African tour by the end of last year before the PCB appointed Mike Hesson in May as their new white-ball coach. Mahmood will now be in charge of the Test team until the end of his contract in April 2026. His first assignment will be a home series against South Africa later this year.

"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 PCB said in a statement.

"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 PCB is confident that under Azhar's guidance, the red-ball squad will continue to grow in strength, discipline and performance on the global stage."