Azhar Mahmood’s brief stint as head coach of Pakistan’s Test cricket team has come to an end, officials confirmed on Friday. Mahmood, who earned around Rs7.5 million per month, served only for a single series against South Africa.
The British citizen and former all-rounder had a long-standing contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). He had previously been promised the Test head coach role while serving as deputy coach under Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie, but the position was not formally announced, leaving him reportedly frustrated.
Sources said Mahmood was offered the chance to join the Under-19 team, which he declined, leading to his temporary appointment as Test coach in late June. He took charge for the first time in October against South Africa, with Pakistan winning the first Test by 93 runs but losing the second by eight wickets.
The PCB decided not to extend his contract, ending his tenure after a single series. Mahmood is currently serving as the fast-bowling coach for Desert Vipers in the UAE ILT20 league.
Looking ahead, Pakistan’s Test team will play nine matches in the new World Test Championship cycle. The campaign begins with two Tests against Bangladesh in March-April, followed by two Tests in the West Indies in July-August, three Tests in England in August-September, and two Tests at home against Sri Lanka in November.
Officials have yet to finalize the next head coach, and it remains unclear whether the PCB will appoint a domestic or foreign coach. Mentoring options, including former coach Misbah-ul-Haq, remain under consideration, though the next Test match is three months away, allowing time for the decision.
