Azhar Mahmood set to assume assistant coach role for Pakistan national cricket team

NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood is poised to take on the role of assistant coach for the national cricket team across all formats, according to recent developments within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Mahmood's potential appointment comes amidst ongoing negotiations with foreign coaches Jason Gillespie from Australia and Gary Kirsten from South Africa.

While Gillespie is slated to serve as the head coach for red-ball cricket, Kirsten is earmarked for the white-ball formats. Mahmood, who previously served as the interim head coach for the upcoming home series against New Zealand starting on April 18, is expected to assume the role of assistant coach to both Gillespie and Kirsten across all formats.

Based in the United Kingdom, Mahmood brings a wealth of experience to the coaching setup, having previously worked as a bowling coach with the Pakistan team. He is also a certified coach with the English and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), adding further credibility to his coaching credentials.

In addition to Mahmood's potential appointment, Muhammad Yousuf , a former cricketer and current national selector, has been named as the batting coach for the New Zealand series. Notably, the PCB has also announced the appointment of two managers for the five-match series, with Wahab Riaz assuming the role of senior team manager, and Mansoor Rana serving as the team manager.

Saeed Ajmal, the former Pakistan spinner, will join the coaching staff as the spin bowling coach for the upcoming series against New Zealand, further enhancing the expertise available to the national team.

As preparations intensify for the upcoming series against New Zealand, the addition of Mahmood, Yousuf, Ajmal, and the managerial staff reflects the PCB's commitment to bolstering the coaching setup and providing comprehensive support to the national team across all facets of the game.

(With inputs from PTI)