Former Pakistan Test cricketer Tauseef Ahmed said on Saturday that Azhar Mahmood does not deserve a place in the national team’s coaching staff.
Speaking on Samaa Digital’s programme "Zor Ka Jor", Tauseef shared his views about the Test squad announced for the West Indies series, welcoming the return of spinners Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan.
He described Nauman and Sajid's inclusion as a positive step for uplifting the team’s strengths.
Tauseef said that Nauman and Sajid’s return was inevitable and necessary, adding that players should be given opportunities in both home and away series. He stressed the importance of consistent team selection based on merit.
Responding to a query about Imamul Haq’s return, he said that Imam had prepared well for upcoming matches, hinting that the team management also planned to utilise him further.
He said: "Imam had scored three centuries before his inclusion and, like others, deserved ample chances."
Highlighting Imam’s versatility, Tauseef described him as a player for all formats who delivered strong performances in domestic cricket. He recalled Imam’s debut century and attacking style, which made him a valuable asset to the team.
When asked about the role of Inzamamul Haq in Imam’s selection, Tauseef dismissed any such influence.
He said that performance should outweigh familial connections, adding that many players, who perhaps do not belong in the team, continue to play despite criticism.
Commenting further on the spinners, Tauseef pointed out that the board initially denied having capable spinners, but Nauman and Sajid’s performances proved otherwise.
He also highlighted the presence of several domestic cricketers excelling in long spells of spin bowling.
Criticising the assistant coach, Tauseef remarked that Azhar Mahmood appeared ineffective and disconnected from the team.
He claimed that Mahmood had been assigned tasks without understanding the team’s strengths, particularly in spin bowling.
Tauseef questioned Mahmood’s inclusion in the staff and observed his lack of engagement during the recent England tour.
