Hesson’s Alleged Attempt to Integrate Islamabad United Coaching Staff into Pakistan Team Led to Azhar Mahmood’s Removal

LAHORE: Azhar Mahmood, the former assistant coach for the Pakistan cricket team, was relieved of his duties due to his affiliation with the Islamabad United (IU) franchise in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), sources have confirmed.

According to insiders, Mike Hesson, the current head coach for Pakistan’s white-ball team, reportedly advocated for incorporating IU’s coaching personnel into the national team, leveraging his connections with the franchise.

In light of these developments, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) decided to exclude Azhar from the coaching setup for the foreseeable future.

Mohammad Yousuf also did not secure a position within the team management, as both he and Mahmood were sidelined by the PCB for the series against Bangladesh.

The PCB reportedly intervened, sending a firm message to Hesson emphasizing that his focus should remain on coaching and avoiding internal politics.

Officials have stressed that all coaching appointments will be based strictly on merit.

Hesson’s alleged efforts included initiatives to bring IU staff — including figures like Shadab Khan and various coaching members — into the national squad. However, the PCB rejected this proposal.

Consequently, Azhar was not included in the team management for the recent three-match T20I series against Bangladesh.

Sources have indicated that his dismissal, alongside that of Yousuf, was directly related to Hesson’s lobbying efforts.

Previously, Azhar served as Pakistan’s bowling coach and had expressed a desire to become the team’s head coach.

For the Bangladesh series, the PCB chose to appoint former Australian cricketer Ashley Noffke as the bowling coach instead.

Earlier in the month, Mahmood stated his intention to apply for the head coach position in an interview.

“I’m definitely going to apply for the Pakistan team head coach role,” Mahmood affirmed.