Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the position of head coach of the national men’s cricket team, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) moves toward finalizing its coaching staff ahead of a packed international calendar.

In a recent interview, the 50-year-old Azhar, currently serving as assistant coach, confirmed his decision. “I’m definitely going to apply for the Pakistan team head coach role,” he stated.

A familiar face in Pakistan’s coaching setup, Azhar has previously held the role of bowling coach and brings extensive international experience to the table.

His announcement comes amid an ongoing search by the PCB, which is expected to finalize the appointment after the May 4 application deadline.

The timing is critical, with Pakistan gearing up for the T20 World Cup and other major assignments. 

Mehmood, who served as Pakistan’s bowling coach from 2016-2019, was appointed as interim head coach for tour of New Zealand in 2024. In the T20I series, Mehmood led the team to a 2-2 draw.

Among the leading contenders for the top job is Mike Hesson, the former New Zealand head coach and current coach of Islamabad United in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Known for his strategic acumen, Hesson served as New Zealand’s head coach from 2012 to 2018 and has also held prominent roles in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Sources say he is under serious consideration and could be tapped to lead Pakistan’s white-ball squads.

Should he be appointed, Hesson’s first assignment would be the upcoming five-match T20I series against Bangladesh, scheduled from May 25 to June 3 at venues in Faisalabad and Lahore.

Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I Series Schedule:

• 21 May – Bangladesh team arrives

• 25 May – 1st T20I, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad (8:00 PM)

• 27 May – 2nd T20I, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad (8:00 PM)

• 30 May – 3rd T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (8:00 PM)

• 1 June – 4th T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (8:00 PM)

• 3 June – 5th T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (8:00 PM)

As the PCB inches closer to a final decision, the coaching appointment will be pivotal in shaping Pakistan’s preparations for the T20 World Cup and other key series in the 2024–25 season.