The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the appointment of former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood as the acting head coach for the men's red-ball team. Mahmood takes over the role from Aaqib Javed, who had been filling in after Jason Gillespie's departure in April 2024. Mahmood's appointment is effective from June 30, 2025, and he will serve in this position until the conclusion of his current contract.

The PCB expressed confidence in Azhar Mahmood's ability to lead the team, citing his extensive experience as both a player and a coach. The board highlighted his previous role as assistant head coach, noting that he has been a vital part of the team's strategic core. The PCB also emphasized Mahmood's "deep knowledge of the game," his "hands-on international exposure," and his "proven success in the English county circuit" as factors that make him well-suited for the position. His two County Championship titles further underscore his leadership, tactical skills, and dedication to excellence.

Mahmood brings a wealth of coaching experience to the role. He previously served as Pakistan's bowling coach from 2016 to 2019 and was head coach during the T20I series against New Zealand in 2023. He has also worked domestically as a bowling coach for the Karachi Kings and Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), and as head coach for Islamabad United.

The PCB is confident that under Mahmood's guidance, the red-ball squad will continue to develop in strength, discipline, and performance on the global stage. Mahmood's immediate focus will be preparing the team for their upcoming assignment in the new ICC World Test Championship cycle, which begins with a two-match series against South Africa later this year.

Pakistan's Test team has faced challenges in recent years. They finished at the bottom of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship cycle. The team will look to improve its performance under Mahmood's leadership, bringing his expertise to the squad.