- Gillespie to coach Pakistan for South Africa Test series: PCB.
- The cricket website claimed that Gillespie has been relieved of all duties.
- Aaqib Javed is being considered for the role of white-ball coach.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rejected a media report suggesting Jason Gillespie has been sacked as red-ball coach, and firmly clarified on Sunday that the 49-year-old former Australian cricketer remains in charge and will continue his duties.
A PCB spokesperson announced that Gillespie, who is also performing duties as interim white-ball coach, will be the red-ball coach for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa as previously announced.
The board has categorically denied a cricket website report which asserted that Gillespie is expected to be relieved of all his duties as Pakistan’s head coach and will be replaced by Aaqib Javed in all formats.
Earlier, I learned from Geographic News Sources revealed that Javed – who is currently part of the PCB’s selection committee – was under consideration for the position of head coach of the men’s national white-ball team.
According to details, the Cricket Board is considering appointing Javed for the role and the upcoming white-ball series against Zimbabwe is likely to be his first stint as Pakistan’s head coach.
Sources also revealed that given the white-ball team’s busy schedule – starting with the white-ball matches against Zimbabwe, comprising three ODIs and three T20Is from November 24 to December 5 – a decision in this regard is expected soon.
Javed has emerged as the front-runner due to his extensive coaching experience, backed by successful spells with local teams and franchise cricket.
This development follows Gary Kirsten’s shock resignation from his position, just days before the team departs for Australia.
As a result, the PCB has appointed Gillespie to the role on an interim basis for the ongoing tour of Australia. Gillespie put to rest the rumors by expressing his unwillingness to take on 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.