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Azhar Mahmood Appointed Acting Head Coach of Pakistan Test Team Until 2026
Former All-Rounder to Lead Red-Ball Side Through Transitional Phase
In a key development aimed at stabilizing Pakistan’s red-ball cricket setup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach of the national Test team. Mahmood, a veteran of 21 Tests and 143 ODIs for Pakistan, will oversee the Test squad until April 2026, the end of his current contract.
The 50-year-old was previously serving as the assistant coach across formats, and this latest move sees him elevated to a leadership position following recent coaching changes within the PCB setup.
“His red-ball pedigree, tactical acumen, and county success make him ideal to lead our Test team,” the PCB said in its official release.
Coaching Changes: From Kirsten to Mahmood
PCB’s Coaching Reshuffle Timeline
The coaching shuffle began last year when Gary Kirsten stepped down as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach in October 2024. Soon after, Jason Gillespie, who was overseeing the red-ball team, also resigned.
In the interim, former fast bowler Aaqib Javed managed the team during the South Africa tour in late 2024. The PCB then appointed Mike Hesson as the new white-ball head coach in May 2025, bringing fresh leadership to the limited-overs side.
Azhar Mahmood now steps into the Test coaching role, marking a continuation of the PCB’s efforts to strengthen red-ball cricket amidst a period of transition.
Mahmood’s Experience and Coaching Credentials
County Success Highlights His Red-Ball Expertise
Azhar Mahmood is no stranger to the challenges of Test cricket. Known for his all-round capabilities, Mahmood made a name for himself in the late 1990s and early 2000s. While his international playing career was cut short due to injuries, he went on to have an illustrious run in English county cricket, particularly with Surrey and Kent.
The PCB highlighted his County Championship victories as a testament to his leadership and game-reading skills. These titles underscore his deep understanding of red-ball dynamics, both from a player’s and a coach’s perspective.
“His two County Championship titles stand as proof of his tactical sharpness and leadership qualities,” the PCB noted.
Mahmood has also served as Pakistan’s bowling coach in previous coaching cycles and has coached various franchises in T20 leagues, making him a well-rounded candidate for the national setup.
First Challenge: South Africa Test Series at Home
Azhar Mahmood’s first official assignment as acting head coach will be the upcoming home Test series against South Africa, scheduled later this year. The series will be crucial not just for the players but also for Mahmood’s credentials as a red-ball leader, especially as Pakistan looks to climb the ICC World Test Championship standings.
PCB’s Statement: Backing Mahmood to Lead Long-Term Red-Ball Growth
In their official communication, the PCB expressed confidence that Mahmood’s appointment would bring discipline, structure, and consistency to Pakistan’s Test team. The board emphasized his “hands-on international exposure” and ability to nurture emerging talent as key reasons behind his elevation.
“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,” the statement concluded.
With two years in hand and the backing of the board, Azhar Mahmood now has a unique opportunity to revive Pakistan’s red-ball reputation, which has faced inconsistent form in recent years.
A Crucial Period for Pakistan Test Cricket
As the Pakistan men’s team gears up for a packed red-ball calendar, the appointment of Azhar Mahmood comes at a critical juncture. His success could pave the way for more stable and results-driven leadership, helping the team regain its competitive edge in global Test cricket.
The upcoming South Africa series will be the first real test for Mahmood’s strategies and team management approach. A successful series could very well make his “acting” role a permanent one.
