Azhar Mahmood Appointed as Acting Head Coach of Pakistan’s Test Team Until 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially appointed former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach of the national Test cricket team. The 50-year-old, who represented Pakistan in 21 Tests and 143 One Day Internationals, will lead the red-ball squad until April 2026, marking a significant step in his coaching career.

Mahmood's promotion follows a series of coaching changes within the PCB setup. He was initially brought into the national coaching structure as an assistant coach across formats in 2023. However, the departures of white-ball coach Gary Kirsten in October 2024 and Test coach Jason Gillespie shortly thereafter created a vacuum in the coaching department.

To fill the gap temporarily, former fast bowler Aaqib Javed was appointed to oversee the red-ball side for the South Africa tour in late 2024. Meanwhile, in May 2025, the PCB announced Mike Hesson as the full-time head coach for the white-ball teams. Now, with Mahmood stepping up, the Test team has secured leadership stability ahead of a crucial phase in their international calendar.

Azhar Mahmood brings a wealth of experience to the role. Apart from his international playing career, he has served in various coaching capacities in franchise leagues and with other national teams, including a prior stint as Pakistan’s bowling coach. His achievements in the English county circuit—where he won two County Championship titles—highlight his strategic mindset and leadership capabilities.

In a statement, the PCB expressed strong confidence in Mahmood’s ability to lead the Test team. “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 board said.

“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.”

Mahmood’s first major assignment as acting head coach will be Pakistan’s home Test series against South Africa later in 2025. The series is expected to be an important one for the team as they aim to rebuild and establish consistency following recent transitions in coaching personnel and squad composition.

Azhar Mahmood's appointment is being viewed positively by former players and analysts, many of whom believe his calm demeanor and technical understanding of the game make him an ideal candidate to lead the Test side. His familiarity with the team setup, having worked closely with the players over the past year, will likely aid in ensuring a smooth transition into his new role.

As Pakistan looks ahead to the 2025–26 international cricket season, all eyes will be on Mahmood and his ability to guide the Test squad through a period of rebuilding and potential resurgence.