LAHORE (Kashmir English): Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has raised concerns over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) recent decision to appoint Azhar Mahmood as the head coach of the national red-ball (Test) team.
Speaking on ‘The Game Plan’ YouTube podcast, Akmal said he was baffled by the rationale behind naming Mahmood to the post on a temporary basis.
He likened the decision to the PCB’s earlier controversial appointment of Mickey Arthur as director of cricket, despite his ongoing commitments with a county team.
“I just don’t understand the logic behind this decision,” Akmal said. “It’s exactly like the time they made Mickey Arthur director of cricket while letting him continue elsewhere. I couldn’t understand it then, and I can’t understand it now.”
Kamran Akmal argued that such short-term, inconsistent decisions have contributed to long-standing issues within Pakistan cricket. He cited a series of coaching changes—including Aaqib Javed, Mohammad Hafeez, and now Azhar Mahmood—as examples of the PCB’s reactive approach.
“These decisions reflect a lack of seriousness,” he added. “When the PCB starts thinking seriously and acting professionally, it won’t have to make such compromises or temporary appointments.”
Azhar Mahmood, who previously served as Pakistan’s bowling coach, has now been given a more senior role. The PCB reportedly sees him as a good fit due to his past international experience and familiarity with the current players.
However, Kamran Akmal believes that merit, planning, and proper communication are essential for making such decisions. He added that these choices not only affect team performance but also shape the future of young players coming into the system.
Kamran Akmal criticised what he described as a ‘please-all’ strategy and questioned the utility of naming a head coach without long-term responsibility.
“Everyone has been appeased, and now Azhar has also been rewarded,” he said. “If you’ve made him head coach, then give him the full time and responsibility. Otherwise, what’s the point?”
