Key points
- Mahmood brings extensive playing and coaching experience
- Previously assistant coach, now leads until contract ends
- Jason Gillespie resigned amid PCB’s internal communication issues
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Monday the appointment of former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood as the interim head coach for the Pakistan Men’s red-ball team.
He will hold this position until the expiry of his current contract.
In an official statement, the PCB emphasised Mahmood’s extensive experience both as a player and coach.
“An experienced cricketing mind, Azhar Mahmood assumes the role with a distinguished track record. Having served as the national side’s assistant head coach, Azhar has long been a key figure in the team’s strategic framework,” the PCB said in a press release.
Azhar Mahmood appointed acting red-ball head coach
Details here ⤵️ https://t.co/4I5n1xmLlx
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) June 30, 2025
“His profound understanding of the game, combined with hands-on international experience and notable success in the English county circuit, renders him exceptionally well-qualified for this role.”
Knowledge of sport
The PCB also highlighted Mahmood’s deep knowledge of the sport, his international exposure, and his proven record in English county cricket.
“His credentials in red-ball cricket are highlighted by two County Championship titles—an accomplishment that speaks volumes about his leadership qualities, tactical insight, and steadfast commitment to excellence,” the statement added.
The board expressed confidence in Mahmood’s ability to guide the red-ball side, stating that under his stewardship, the team is expected to strengthen in discipline, resilience, and performance on the world stage.
The 50-year-old signed a two-year contract with the PCB in April 2024 and had previously held the position of assistant coach.
Omission from coaching
However, he was omitted from the coaching staff for the recent home T20I series against Bangladesh in May, which Pakistan won 3-0, following the appointment of Mike Hesson as head coach of the white-ball side.
It is worth noting that former Australian all-rounder Jason Gillespie was appointed as Pakistan’s red-ball head coach on 28 April 2024.
During his tenure, Pakistan endured a 2-0 home series whitewash against Bangladesh but later bounced back with a 2-1 series victory over England in another home series.
Gillespie subsequently resigned, citing issues with internal communication within the PCB.
