The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former pacer Azhar Mahmood as the head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team for the upcoming T20 International series against New Zealand. The series, set to take place from April 18th to April 27th, will feature matches held at two of Pakistan’s renowned cricket venues: Rawalpindi and Lahore. Azhar Mahmood, whose cricketing journey is adorned with notable achievements both as a player and a coach, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Having represented Pakistan in 164 international matches, Mahmood’s cricketing prowess is well-documented, with his all-round capabilities having made significant contributions to the team’s success over the years. His previous tenure with the Pakistan cricket team, serving as the bowling coach from 2016 to 2019, saw him play a crucial role in shaping the team’s bowling attack, a testament to his deep understanding of the game and strategic acumen.
The decision to appoint Mahmood as head coach comes at a time when Pakistan are looking to bolster its performance on the international stage, particularly in the fast-paced and dynamic format of T20 cricket. With the series against New Zealand on the horizon, Mahmood’s leadership and insights will be invaluable as the team prepares to face a formidable opponent. The matches, set against the backdrop of Rawalpindi and Lahore’s vibrant cricketing culture, are anticipated to be a showcase of competitive cricket, with both teams eager to claim victory. Mohammad Yousuf will be the batting coach, while Saeed Ajmal, who was the bowling coach on the previous tours to Australia and New Zealand, will continue as the spin bowling coach. Wahab Riaz has been hired as senior team manager. Pakistan will face New Zealand in a five-match series in Rawalpindi and Lahore from April 18 to April 27.
Pakistan team player support personnel for New Zealand T20Is
Wahab Riaz (senior team manager), Mansoor Rana (team manager), Azhar Mahmood (head coach), Mohammad Yousuf (batting coach), Saeed Ajmal (spin bowling coach), Aftab Khan (field coach), Cliffe Deacon (physiotherapist), Drikus Saiman (strength and conditioning coach), Talha Butt (analyst), Irtiza Komail (security manager), Raza Kitchlew (media and digital manager), Zain Maqsood (videographer), Dr Khurram Sarwar (doctor), and Mohammad Imran (masseur).
Meanwhile, the Pakistan cricket team for the New Zealand series will be announced on Tuesday, 9 April.