PCB Considering Former All-Rounder as New Red-Ball Coach

Pakistan Cricket Board’s search for a new red-ball head coach may soon be coming to an end, with reports suggesting that the PCB is seriously considering Azhar Mahmood as the man likely to take over the reins permanently.

Azhar Mahmood, a former Pakistan all-rounder with extensive coaching experience, is already under a two-year contract with the PCB signed earlier this year in April. Although he was initially brought in as assistant coach, his role was significantly reduced following the appointment of Mike Hesson as white-ball head coach.

However, with no one replacing Jason Gillespie since his exit, Azhar Mahmood has emerged as the front-runner to fill the red-ball vacancy. According to reports, his familiarity with the dynamics of Pakistan cricket has turned the odds in his favour, as has his strong rapport with several senior players in the current setup. He was already part of the coaching staff in recent years and played a key backstage role during various transitional periods for Pakistan cricket.

While Azhar Mahmood’s exclusion from the staff during the recent Bangladesh series raised eyebrows, his contractual availability and prior Test experience give the PCB a ready-made option amid ongoing instability.

Pakistan also has no Test assignments until October, meaning the PCB has ample time to reintroduce Azhar Mahmood to the coaching setup. If true, he will be Pakistan’s first permanent red-ball coach after Jason Gillespie. Aaqib Javed had been at the helm in an interim capacity since the Australian’s departure.

Pakistan’s Test cricket team is staring at a rebuild and needs a steady hand to guide it through a difficult phase. Pakistan finished last in the previous ICC World Test Championship cycle, and the next coach faces the monumental task of re-earning the fans’ trust, especially with rumours of a new captain swirling as well.

For a team that’s cried out for consistency, trust, and direction, Azhar Mahmood could be the stabilizing hand Pakistan’s red-ball setup desperately needs.