Azhar Mahmood appointed Islamabad United head coach

The former Pakistan international replaces Johan Botha ahead of the seventh edition of the PSL

Two-time Pakistan Super League winners Islamabad United have installed Azhar Mahmood as their new head coach.

Ahead of the seventh edition of the competition, the 46-year-old replaces Johan Botha who is unable to join up with the team due to commitments in Australia.

Mahmood was part of the squad that won the inaugural PSL in 2016 and since retirement has coached at Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans and Pakistan.

Most recently, he had a stint as a consultant with England men and Oval Invincibles in The Hundred.

"I have played franchise cricket all over the world and I look forward to sharing my experience with the guys at Islamabad United," said Mahmood, who played 21 Tests and 143 one-day internationals for Pakistan.

"The franchise believes in unity, empowers youngsters and believes in data; those are values which are dear to me. 

"I thank Mr Ali Naqvi for the trust he has put in me and I will do my best to deliver to his expectations."

Owner Ali Naqvi added: “Azhar was with us back in 2016 and his subsequent success as a bowling coach is not a surprise to anyone who interacted with him then. 

"Seeing the development of so many of the young bowlers in the national team over the last five years is a testament to his work ethic."

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