Even though earlier this year Azhar Mahmood already signed a 2-year contract with PCB, the former Pakistan all-rounder with vast coaching experience was originally brought in as an assistant coach, thus decreasing his position after the posting of Mike Hesson as white-ball head coach.

Azhar Mehmood is the top choice to fill in the position of head coach as no one has filled in this position after Jason Gillespie’s departure. Azhar Mehmood has a robust affinity with senior players in the contemporary setup and according to reports, due to his understanding of Pakistan cricket, it is highly likely that the chances are on his side for becoming the next head coach of red-ball.

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Although Azhar Mahmood s exclusion from the team during the most recent Bangladesh series caused some controversy, the PCB has a convenient option in the midst of continued instability because of his availability and previous Test experience.

PCB has a lot of time on their hands, as there are no test assignments being conducted in Pakistan until October, meaning that they can bring back Azhar Mehmood to the coaching setup. If this is the case, then after Jason Gillespie, he may become Pakistan’s first permanent red-ball coach.  After the Australian left, Aaqib Javed had taken over in a temporary role.

In the last ICC World Test Championship cycle, Pakistan came in last place and since then, the PCB team has been on the lookout for someone that can bring back honour and reconstruct the team as well as help pave the way forward during this hard time. The burden of the load has to be carried by someone that can reinstall trust in fans more now than ever as the rumour mill circulates the wind of a new captain.

Azhar Mehmood could become a stabilising factor for a team that has shouted for constant guidance and reliance. He might be the ray of hope that Pakistan’s red-ball setup really needs.