Islamabad United ropes in Ian Butler as bowling coach for HBL PSL 10

Islamabad United has hired the services of former New Zealand pacer Ian Butler as bowling coach ahead of the HBL PSL 10 which will begin from April 11 across the country.

The Auckland-born former Test pacer has replaced Azhar Mahmood.

“Islamabad United is pleased to announce lan Butler as the team's bowling coach for the PSL 10,” United said in its press release on Wednesday.

“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,” it said.

Islamabad United owner Ali Naqvi expressed his gratitude for Azhar's contribution to the United’s cause during his association with the team.

"Azhar Mahmood has been a true Islamabad United legend. From winning our first PSL title as a player to returning as a coach and helping us win PSL 9, he has played a vital role in our journey.”

“His experience, leadership and mentorship have been invaluable. We are incredibly grateful for everything he has done for Islamabad United, and while we will miss him, we wish him the very best in his continued role with the Pakistan national team."

“We are excited to welcome lan Butler as the new bowling coach for PSL 10. Butler an experienced bowling coach with a strong track record in international and franchise cricket, will be making his debut in the PSL. We are excited to see him with Islamabad United's coaching setup, led by head coach Mike Hesson,” the release added.

lan Butler has expressed his pleasure over joining United.

"I am 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. 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."

United's Head Coach Mike Hesson also welcomed Butler.

"lan brings a wealth of experience in developing bowlers and fine-tuning their skills at the highest level. His ability to work with both established players and emerging talents will be a massive asset for us. We are confident that his expertise will add to the strong coaching unit we've assembled. At the same time, I want to express my gratitude to Azhar Mahmood, who played a crucial role in Islamabad United's success last season. He has left a strong foundation, and we appreciate everything he has done for this team."