- Insiders reveal the possible reasons for Gillespie’s sudden resignation.
- Gillespie’s removal from the selection committee caused significant opposition.
- Naqvi refuses to fulfill the former coach’s request for a salary increase.
LAHORE: Pakistan cricket has been hit by successive resignations of two head coaches with Jason Gillespie stepping down as national red-ball coach just days before the Test series against South Africa.
Insiders have revealed the possible reasons for the veteran Australian cricketer’s sudden resignation from his duties, saying Gillespie pulled out due to Pakistani cricket authorities not accepting his demands.
The conflict reportedly began when Gillespie was removed from the selection committee, a decision that caused significant discontent. Subsequently, Gillespie attempted to become the head coach of both the red and white-ball formats, along with demanding increased compensation.
However, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi refused to honor the salary increase demand. In addition, the board asked Gillespie to spend more time in Pakistan, a proposal he was not prepared to accept.
It is worth noting that similar issues arose with former white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten, who also resigned ahead of the Australia series due to his unwillingness to reside in Pakistan outside of series commitments.
Both coaches reportedly sought to bring in their preferred support staff as well, adding to the complications.
Gillespie, who was scheduled to arrive in South Africa today (Friday) to supervise the pre-Test series camp, tendered his resignation on Thursday.
After the development, PCB appointed Aaqib Javed as interim red-ball coach.
It should be noted that reports of Gillespie’s resignation began circulating last month after Christine ceased her duties, but the national cricket governing body denied the “rumours”.
The PCB has made it very clear that the 49-year-old former Australian cricketer remains in office and will continue his duties.
Gillespie was appointed to the white-ball coaching role on an interim basis for the tour of Australia last month in Christen’s absence.
However, the former Australian cricketer has made it clear that he is not interested in taking up the role on a full-time basis.
“I’ve only taken over as white-ball coach temporarily. I’m not interested in coaching permanently in the white-ball system at the moment,” Gillespie told Australian media in Melbourne.
“I did not apply for full-time white-ball coaching.”
“I love training, but I don’t think I can spend 11 months away from home. I also don’t think I can handle it mentally,” he said, highlighting his need to spend a lot of time with his family.