In a significant move signalling fresh turmoil, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to terminate its association with national Test team head coach Azhar Mahmood. The board has granted him an early release, cutting short his contract by a full three months.
Contract Cut Short Amid Planning Phase
Mahmood's contract was originally set to run until March 2026. However, with Pakistan not scheduled to play another Test match until that same month, the PCB has opted for a change in leadership now. A source within the board explained the rationale, stating that since the team's next Test assignments begin from March 2026, it is an opportune time to start planning for a new head coach.
The former Pakistan all-rounder had been associated with the national side in various capacities over recent years. His appointment as the dedicated Test head coach came last year on a two-year deal. His premature exit underscores a period of persistent instability within Pakistan's Test coaching structure, which has witnessed frequent changes since the beginning of 2024.
Search for New Leadership Begins
With Mahmood's departure confirmed, the PCB has already initiated the process to find his successor. Reports suggest that the search for a new Test head coach is underway, and the board is also considering a broader overhaul of the entire support staff. This decision aims to bring stability and a clear long-term vision to the Test squad.
The Test side has largely operated under interim arrangements recently. This phase began after the PCB and former Australian coach Jason Gillespie parted ways in early 2024 due to disagreements on selection matters. Following that, responsibilities were shared between Aaqib Javed and Azhar Mahmood.
Upcoming Challenges in World Test Championship
The new coach, whoever it may be, will have a packed schedule to prepare for. Pakistan's World Test Championship campaign resumes in March 2026 with a tour of Bangladesh. This will be followed by challenging away series against the West Indies in July and England in August-September of the same year.
The team is also slated to play home series against Sri Lanka in November-December 2026 and New Zealand in March 2027. The PCB's decision to make a coaching change now is clearly aimed at giving the new setup ample time to prepare for this intensive cycle of red-ball cricket.
