Azhar Mahmood has been appointed as the acting head coach of the Pakistan men’s red-ball team by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), effective from Monday, June 30. He takes over from Aaqib Javed, who had assumed the role temporarily after Jason Gillespie resigned in April 2024, just eight months into his contract.

Mahmood’s initial challenge will be to lead the team in the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa, which will take place at home in October this year.

“Azhar Mahmood brings a vast amount of experience to this role, having previously worked as the assistant head coach of the national team. A central figure in the team’s strategic framework, his deep knowledge of the game, combined with his international experience and a proven record in the English county circuit, makes him perfectly suited for this position,” said the PCB.

With a strong background in coaching, Mahmood previously held the position of Pakistan’s bowling coach from 2016 to 2019. In 2023, Mahmood stepped in as the head coach for the T20I series against New Zealand. In the domestic arena, he has had an active role in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), serving as the bowling coach for both Karachi Kings and Multan Sultans, as well as being the head coach of Islamabad United.

“His red-ball achievements are highlighted by two County Championship titles, showcasing his leadership, tactical expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence. The PCB is confident that with Azhar at the helm, the red-ball team will keep building strength, improving discipline, and competing at the top level on the global stage,” the PCB further stated.

Pakistan has not made it to the finals in either of the three editions of the World Test Championship so far.