Azhar Mahmood bids farewell as Islamabad United announce new bowling coach for PSL 10

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Islamabad United revealed their new bowling coach on Wednesday after Azhar Mahmood departed, ahead of the upcoming 10th edition of the league.

Three-time PSL winner Islamabad United parted ways with Azhar due to his commitment with the Pakistan men’s cricket team.

The former bowling all-rounder has been replaced by Ian Buttler, who played eight Tests, 26 ODIs, and 19 T20Is for New Zealand from 2002 to 2013.

“Islamabad United, the most successful franchise in Pakistan Super League (PSL) history, is pleased to announce Ian Butler as the team’s bowling coach for PSL 10,” United said in a statement.

“At the same time, the franchise bids farewell to Azhar Mahmood, who is currently working with the Pakistan national team.”

“Azhar played a key role in Islamabad United’s success both as a player and a coach, winning PSL 1 in 2016 as a player and as an assistant coach in 2024,” the statement added.

Ian Butler expressed his excitement after the appointment as bowling coach of Islamabad United.

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“I’m really excited to be part of Islamabad United for PSL 10. This will be my first experience coaching in Pakistan, and I’ve heard great things about the passion for cricket here.”

“Islamabad United has a fantastic legacy in the PSL, and I’m looking forward to working with the talented bowling group to help the team push for another title,” he said.

Former pacer also lauded Azhar Mahmood’s services for the franchise and expressed his hope of building on his work.

“I’d also like to acknowledge Azhar Mahmood, who has done a fantastic job with this team, and I hope to continue building on that,” he concluded.

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