Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal Explodes in anger over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) latest coaching decision, describing their appointment of Azhar Mahmood as interim Test coach as completely “illogical.” Akmal launched a fierce attack on the PCB’s coaching call during a YouTube show, expressing his frustration with what he sees as another poorly thought-out decision that reflects the board’s continued mismanagement of Pakistan cricket.
A Pattern of Questionable Decisions
Akmal Explodes drew parallels between Mahmood’s appointment and previous controversial decisions by the PCB. He specifically referenced Mickey Arthur’s role as director of cricket while the former coach continued his county cricket commitments. “I just don’t understand the logic behind this decision,” Akmal stated. “It’s exactly like the time PCB made Mickey Arthur director of cricket while allowing him to continue working with a county team. I couldn’t understand it then, and I can’t understand it now.”
The former international cricketer argues that such inconsistent decisions have created long-term problems for Pakistan cricket. According to reports, Mahmood’s appointment appears to be more about convenience than strategic planning, with the former all-rounder set to hold the position only until his current contract expires in March 2026.
The Interim Coaching Carousel
Pakistan cricket has witnessed a revolving door of interim appointments in recent years. Azhar Mahmood becomes the seventh Test coach since 2021, highlighting the continuous chaos within the PCB’s decision-making process. Before Mahmood, the board had appointed Aaqib Javed and Mohammad Hafeez in temporary roles, creating what Akmal describes as a concerning pattern.
“Before this, it was Aaqib Javed, then Mohammad Hafeez, and now Azhar,” Akmal pointed out. This rapid succession of interim appointments reflects the board’s inability to establish a stable coaching environment that could benefit Pakistan’s Test cricket in the long term.
Criticism of the ‘Please-All’ Strategy
Akmal’s criticism extends beyond individual appointments to the PCB’s overall approach to management. He believes the board operates a ‘please-all’ strategy that prioritizes appeasing different factions rather than making decisions based on merit and long-term planning. “Everyone has been appeased, and now Azhar has also been rewarded,” he observed.
The former wicketkeeper-batsman argues that Mahmood’s appointment appears to reward loyalty rather than build a robust coaching system. This approach, according to Akmal, undermines the seriousness required to develop Pakistan cricket at the highest level.
The Need for a Professional Approach
Akmal emphasized that the PCB must adopt a more professional approach to its appointments. He believes that clear, long-term decisions are essential for Pakistan cricket’s development rather than temporary fixes that create uncertainty. “These decisions reflect a lack of seriousness,” he stated. “When the PCB starts thinking seriously and acting professionally, it won’t have to make such compromises or temporary appointments.”
The veteran cricketer’s comments highlight a broader concern about the PCB’s governance structure and its impact on Pakistan cricket’s performance. The constant changes in coaching staff prevent the development of consistent strategies and long-term planning that successful cricket teams require.
Mahmood’s Coaching Background
Azhar Mahmood brings considerable experience as a player and coach to the role. The former all-rounder represented Pakistan in 21 Tests and 143 ODIs during his playing career. He has worked as an assistant coach with various teams and has been part of the Pakistan coaching setup in different capacities.
However, Akmal questions whether Mahmood’s appointment addresses the fundamental issues facing Pakistan Test cricket. The interim nature of the role suggests that the PCB views this as a temporary solution rather than a strategic appointment aimed at long-term improvement.
Impact on Pakistan Cricket
The criticism from Kamran Akmal reflects broader concerns about Pakistan cricket’s direction under the current PCB administration. The constant changes in coaching staff and interim appointments create instability that affects team preparation and performance. Players struggle to adapt to different coaching philosophies and systems when changes occur frequently.
Moreover, the interim nature of appointments makes it difficult for coaches to implement long-term strategies or build strong relationships with players. This instability has contributed to Pakistan’s inconsistent performances in Test cricket over recent years.
The Bigger Picture
Akmal Explodes criticism goes beyond individual appointments to highlight systemic issues within the PCB’s governance. The former international believes that the board’s approach reflects a lack of vision and professional management that is essential for cricket development. “If you’ve made him head coach, then give him the full time and responsibility. Otherwise, what’s the point?” he concluded.
The veteran cricketer’s comments resonate with many observers of Pakistan cricket who have witnessed the board’s inconsistent decision-making over the years. The appointment of interim coaches has become a recurring theme that suggests the PCB lacks a clear strategy for developing its cricket programs.
Looking Forward
As Pakistan cricket continues to face challenges in the Test format, the need for stable and professional management becomes increasingly important. Akmal Explodes criticism highlights the urgency of addressing these governance issues if Pakistan wants to compete effectively at the highest level.
The PCB must consider whether its current approach to coaching appointments serves the best interests of Pakistan cricket. The constant changes and interim arrangements create uncertainty that affects both players and the broader cricket ecosystem in the country.
