Pakistan Cricket Board Parts Ways With Azhar Mahmood as Test Coach Ahead of 2026 Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to part ways with Azhar Mahmood as the Test team coach. This means the Test coach position is currently empty. Azhar Mahmood, a former Pakistan player, had worked with the team in different roles before. He was appointed as the Test head coach last year after Jason Gillespie left the job. The PCB is now on the hunt for a new head coach before Pakistan’s next Test series.

PCB Ends Azhar Mahmood’s Test Coach Tenure, Begins Search for New Coach

According to PTI, the PCB said Pakistan will not play any Test matches until March 2026, and Azhar Mahmood’s contract also ends at that time. So, the PCB decided to let him go early so they can start planning and finding a new Test coach well before the next Test series. The report further states that the PCB has initiated the search for a new head coach and might even overhaul the support staff before the next Test assignment.

“Since Azhar’s contract ends in March and Pakistan’s Test assignments begin from March 2026, it would be best for the Board to start planning ahead for a new head coach,” a source close to the PCB said.

Mahmood, found himself in the coaching spotlight after the dismissal of Mohammed Hafeez. He was given the opportunity to coach Pakistan in April 2024 for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand at home.