PCB Sacks Test Coach Azhar Mahmood Early; Search for New Head Coach Begins

• Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has terminated Test team head coach Azhar Mahmood's contract three months before its scheduled expiry in March 2026.
• Mahmood, a former Test all-rounder, was appointed last year under a two-year contract, but received an early release.
• The decision comes as Pakistan's next Test assignment is also scheduled for March 2026, prompting PCB to plan for a new coach.
• PCB is actively searching for a new head coach for the Test side and may also make changes to the support staff.
• The women's national team is also seeking a new head coach after Muhammad Wasim's contract was not renewed.

Why It Matters: PCB fires Azhar Mahmood early, initiating a search for new Test and women's team coaches.