Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has concluded his stint with the national Test side as interim head coach, according to a report on Tuesday. Azhar, who took charge of Pakistan’s red-ball team in June this year, was originally appointed on a contract running until March 2026.
However, with Pakistan not scheduled to play any Test cricket until their away tour of Bangladesh in March–April next year, both Azhar Mahmood and the Pakistan Cricket Board mutually agreed to end the arrangement earlier than planned.
The decision brings an end to Azhar’s extended association with the national setup. He had first joined Pakistan’s coaching staff in April 2024 as an assistant coach across all formats, working closely with Gary Kirsten in the white-ball teams and Jason Gillespie with the Test side.
During his time with the red-ball squad, Azhar played a key role in team preparations and player development, drawing on his vast experience of international cricket and coaching. His departure now leaves Pakistan set to reassess its red-ball coaching structure ahead of the Bangladesh tour next year.
