The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed Azhar Mahmood as acting head coach of the men’s Test team today, seeking stability amid relentless management changes. The 48-year-old former allrounder takes charge immediately and will lead Pakistan through home series against South Africa (October) and Sri Lanka (December-January), remaining in post until his contract expires in March 2026.
Mahmood becomes Pakistan’s seventh Test coach since 2021 – a turbulent period marked by revolving-door appointments and shifting leadership structures. Having served as all-format assistant coach since April 2023, he brings continuity. He previously held interim charge during a T20 series against New Zealand.
His elevation follows Jason Gillespie’s resignation last December after just six months. Aaqib Javed temporarily filled the role during Pakistan’s recent tours of South Africa and the West Indies. Mahmood will now focus solely on red-ball cricket, stepping away from white-ball duties under new limited-overs coach Mike Hesson.
The PCB highlighted Mahmood’s “proven success” in first-class cricket, noting: “His red-ball pedigree is underscored by two County Championship titles with Surrey – speaking volumes about his tactical acumen and commitment. We’re confident the Test squad will grow in strength under his guidance.”
Pakistan’s Test team faces urgent challenges. They finished last in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC), winning only five of 14 matches. Mahmood’s interim status means they begin the new WTC cycle without permanent leadership. After hosting Sri Lanka, Pakistan tours England for a crucial three-Test series – their first there since 2020.