Former Australian cricketer Jason Gillespie has resigned as Pakistan’s Test coach, just a month after Gary Kirsten stepped down from his role as the white-ball coach.
Gillespie’s resignation comes as a significant blow to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), especially with the two-match Test series against South Africa set to commence on December 26.
According to multiple reports, Gillespie’s decision stems from ongoing tensions with the PCB, reaching a peak when he refused to board his scheduled 6 AM flight to South Africa on Friday. The former pacer informed the board of his intent to resign, citing strained relations and unresolved disputes.
The PCB has announced that former Pakistani cricketer Aaqib Javed will serve as the interim Test coach for the South Africa series. Javed, who is already the interim coach for Pakistan’s white-ball sides, will now oversee the red-ball format temporarily.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named Aqib Javed as interim red-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team following the resignation of red-ball head-coach Jason Gillespie,” PCB’s statement read.
Gillespie’s dissatisfaction with the PCB reportedly began when the board decided against renewing Tim Nielsen’s contract as high-performance red-ball coach. The decision was made without Gillespie’s consultation, leaving the Australian coach frustrated and sidelined. This lack of communication eroded trust, leading to Gillespie’s ultimate decision to step down.
Adding to the instability, Gary Kirsten’s earlier departure from the white-ball coaching role further compounded Pakistan’s leadership challenges. Gillespie had briefly filled in as the interim white-ball coach, but his tenure was short-lived due to ongoing friction with the board.
The timing of Gillespie’s resignation leaves Pakistan in a precarious position. With no clear plans for appointing permanent coaches for either the red-ball or white-ball teams, the PCB faces mounting pressure, especially with the Champions Trophy on the horizon. . As Pakistan prepares for a crucial Test series and the upcoming Champions Trophy, the lack of stability in leadership could significantly impact the team’s performance.
For now, all eyes are on Aaqib Javed as he takes charge in a challenging interim role, tasked with steering Pakistan through this turbulent phase.