Pakistan cricket is once again undergoing a period of change, with Azhar Mahmood appointed as the acting Test coach, following a stint by Aaqib Javed. This continues a trend of frequent changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and its coaching staff.
Azhar Mahmood's appointment comes as Pakistan prepares for the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Mahmood, a former all-rounder, is not new to the team, having previously served as the assistant head coach of the national side. He also served as Pakistan's bowling coach from 2016 to 2019 and was the head coach during the T20I series against New Zealand in 2023. His experience extends to the domestic level, where he has coached in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The PCB has expressed confidence that Mahmood's knowledge of the game and experience will benefit the red-ball squad.
Aaqib Javed's time as interim red-ball head coach concludes after he stepped in following Jason Gillespie's resignation. Gillespie had taken over from Gary Kirsten, who resigned due to differences with the PCB. Javed's appointment as interim coach occurred in December 2024, and his first assignment was the two-match Test series against South Africa. Before becoming interim coach, Javed had a long association with the Lahore Qalandars, served as a national selector, and also previously served as bowling coach for Pakistan. He was recently appointed as Director of High-Performance.
The frequent changes in coaching personnel highlight the instability that has plagued Pakistan cricket in recent years. In the past two years, Pakistan has seen a high turnover of coaches, board heads, and captains. This instability has coincided with a string of defeats, adding pressure on the team to perform.
The PCB is hopeful that Mahmood can bring stability and success to the Test side. His red-ball credentials include two County Championship titles, demonstrating his leadership and tactical skills. However, Pakistan's recent performance in the World Test Championship has been poor, finishing at the bottom of the standings in the ongoing 2023-25 cycle.
Mahmood's first challenge will likely be the two-match Test series against South Africa at home later this year. His appointment is until the end of his current contract.
