Karachi : Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has been appointed as the team’s bowling coach for the ongoing Asia Cup in Bangladesh and the World T20 to be played in India next month.
The 40-year-old, who is likely to join the squad in Dhaka on Thursday, has replaced former leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed for the two events.
Confirming the news, Pakistan’s team manager said that Mushtaq had been rested for the two tournaments as he was too fatigued.
Mushtaq is likely to rejoin the squad ahead of the England tour in June this year.
“Azhar is a good replacement for the interim, being a T20 specialist. He will join the squad later this evening,” he added.
Azhar, who played for Islamabad United in the recently-concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL), has not been involved in any international coaching so far. He, however, featured in the minor-coaching roles in private clubs in the UAE and England.
Azhar bagged 39 wickets and scored 900 runs in the 21 Tests which he played for Pakistan. He also claimed 123 wickets and scored 1,521 runs in his 143 ODI appearances. (ANI)