Azhar Mahmood appointed Pakistan’s acting red-ball coach till end of current contract

“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 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 added.

The 50-year-old Mahmood has played 21 Tests and 143 ODIs for Pakistan between 1997 and 2007.

“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,” the board said.

Meanwhile, earlier this month, both Kirsten and Gillespie had reflected on their tenure as Pakistan coaches, saying that it was a pretty tough time.

Gillespie, the former Australia fast bowler, has said that the experience had “soured” his love for coaching and Kirsten, who had stepped down before the former, said that he understood pretty early on that he wouldn’t have too much authority on selection.

“It was a tumultuous few months,” Kirsten was quoted as saying by Wisden. “I realised quite quickly I wasn’t going to have much of an influence. Once I was taken off selection and asked to take a team and not be able to shape the team, it became very difficult as a coach then to have any sort of positive influence on the group.”