Azhar Mahmood is a T20 specialist who has played the shortest format in many countries © PA Photos
Azhar Mahmood has been appointed Pakistan’s bowling coach for the Asia Cup and World T20, and is expected to join the squad in Dhaka on Thursday evening. The former Pakistan allrounder is replacing regular bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed for these two tournaments; according to the PCB, Mushtaq is rested and is expected to resume his duties ahead of the England tour in June this year.
“Mushi has been rested for two events as he was too fatigued,” Pakistan’s team manager told ESPNcricinfo. “Azhar is a good replacement for the interim, being a T20 specialist. He will join the squad later this evening.”
Mushtaq, 45, the former Pakistan legspinner, has been a part of the Pakistan coaching staff and team management since 2014. He last played for Pakistan in 2003. After ending his playing career, he transformed into a successful coach. He worked with England as a spin-bowling consultant, and when he was released in 2014 he started working with Pakistan, working with and mentoring Saeed Ajmal and Yasir Shah among others.
Azhar, 40, has been active at domestic level since his last international game in 2007. A vastly experienced allrounder, he has played 225 T20s, representing teams from Pakistan, England, India, Bangladesh, New Zealand and the West Indies. Although he has not been involved in any international coaching till date, he has featured in the minor-coaching roles in private clubs in the UAE and England.
Umar Farooq is ESPNcricinfo’s Pakistan correspondent. @kalson
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Source: ESPN Crickinfo