Cricket news: Former Punjab Kings all-rounder named Pakistan Test team's 'acting' head coach, replaces Aaqib Javed

Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has been appointed as Pakistan's acting red-ball head coach until April 2024, taking over from outgoing coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten. The Pakistan Cricket Board announced the elevation of Mahmood, who has been serving as assistant coach across formats since April 2022.Mahmood, 50, signed a two-year contract with PCB last year alongside Australia's Gillespie for Tests and South Africa's Kirsten for limited-overs cricket. Both Gillespie and Kirsten have since departed from their roles."The Pakistan Cricket Board today announces Azhar Mahmood as the acting red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men's team. Azhar will serve in this role until the conclusion of his current contract," the PCB announced."A seasoned cricketing mind, Azhar Mahmood steps into the role with an impressive portfolio of experience. Having served as the assistant head coach of the national side, Azhar has long been a pivotal part of the team's strategic core. His deep knowledge of the game, combined with hands-on international exposure and proven success in the English county circuit, make him exceptionally well-suited for this position," the board stated.The PCB highlighted Mahmood's success in English county cricket, particularly his role in Surrey's County Championship victories as assistant coach."His red-ball pedigree is underscored by two County Championship titles — an achievement that speaks volumes about his leadership, tactical acumen and unwavering commitment to excellence," the PCB noted."The PCB is confident that under Azhar's guidance, the red-ball squad will continue to grow in strength, discipline and performance on the global stage," the board added.Mahmood represented Pakistan in 21 Tests and 143 ODIs between 1996 and 2007.