LONDON: Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has joined England coaching staff for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Pakistan.
According to England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), former Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood will assist England bowling coach, Jon Lewis, during the series.
“Jon Lewis will be the bowling coach and is supported by former Pakistan international and bowling coach Azhar Mahmood,” said the ECB while announcing squad and coaching staff for the upcoming series.
In the past, Pakistan legendary spinners Saqlain Mushtaq and Mushtaq Ahmed had also worked in the coaching staff for England’s team.
Meanwhile, England selectors have named a 14-strong squad for the T20I series against Pakistan, starting on Friday, August 28 at Old Trafford.
The squad includes Eoin Morgan (captain), Moeen Ali, Jonathan Bairstow, Tom Banton, Sam Billings, Tom Curran, Joe Denly, Lewis Gregory, Chris Jordan, Saqib Mahmood, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, David Willey.
On the occasion, National Selector, Ed Smith said, “In this crowded international summer, players who are currently playing the Test series against Pakistan are not included in this squad.”
“We want to give multi-format players some opportunity to rest and refresh, while still selecting strong squads for every series. We will announce the squad for the Australia T20 series at a later date,” he added.