- July 1, 2025
Smooth coaching transitions are rare in Pakistan cricket, and Azhar Mahmood’s role as acting red-ball head coach is no exception. The former professional all-rounder, recognised for his tough periods of bowling and his batting prowess at the lower end of the batting order, is now in charge of one of the most scrutinized roles in world cricket. With Pakistan’s red-ball performances showcased and there is a new ICC World Test Championship cycle on the horizon, Mahmood’s appointment could be the calmness the Test side has been calling out for.
A Familiar Face, a Fresh Responsibility
Azhar Mahmood isn’t unfamiliar to people in Pakistan; he has been in the dressing room for several years as a bowling coach, assistant head coach, and a mentor. Taking on the red-ball head coach role seems more like a continuation of his journey than an uncertain venture. The PCB’s confidence in this particular combination of style and experience is born from not only his curriculum vitae, but his deep-seated knowledge of Pakistan cricket—chaotic, passionate, and brilliant with the unpredictable. Having worn the green playing in 21 Tests and 143 ODIs, Mahmood knows not only how to flourish, but she also knows how to exist in the system.
His red-ball credentials? Two County Championship wins, years of tactical conditioning in English conditions, and a proven talent for eliciting the best from a unit of pace. Once again, Pakistan’s red-ball cricket needs not revolution, but assistance and direction. And while it could be May, Azhar Mahmood may just be the man.
What’s at Stake: The WTC Cycle and a South African Test
The first major test of the Azhar government will not be long into the future, with South Africa touring Pakistan later this year for two Tests to set the tone for the new ICC World Test Championship series for Babar Azam’s side, who were awful in the last WTC cycle – missing out on chances, and disappointing at home – but could start a clean slate.
Where Mahmood’s ability to plan under pressure will be relevant is in Pakistan’s pace attack, their traditional strength and trendsetter, needing a new life. If he can rejuvenate the pace attack, give his team clarity over roles, and have accountability over the selections and execution in the team, that series against South Africa could start something much bigger. Azhar isn’t just leading a team; he is leading a reconstruction of reputation.
More Than a Stopgap: Building Long-Term Vision
His official title may read “acting head coach,” but Shaheen has the potential to be much more than a caretaker. This is Pakistan cricket—temporary appointments can be permanent if the opportunity allows for it. The difference now is that the PCB is looking for some continuity and coherence in the Test setup. Some of the previous appointments felt reactionary, but Shaheen’s appointment suggests it may be more strategic.
He knows the players. He knows the conditions. He doesn’t even have to bother with having to “adjust to the environment” because he is the environment. If it clicks, this could be the start of a long-term red-ball project with Azhar at the head, built on trust and tactical knowledge, and vision.
Azhar Mahmood’s placement as interim head coach of red-ball cricket isn’t simply another name added to an ever-changing conveyor belt of coaching staff in Pakistan cricket—it’s something clever that may benefit the team in the long term. As there’s a new World Test Championship to contend with, there is plenty of potential for Mahmood to show what he will bring as captain of a ship that will be undergoing a very testing campaign.
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