Pakistan cricket faces yet another controversy as Jason Gillespie steps down as the Test team’s coach just two weeks before their South Africa tour. Reports suggest Gillespie’s departure stems from a lack of involvement in key decisions, further exposing tensions within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Gillespie’s Short Stint Comes to an Abrupt End
Gillespie, who joined Pakistan’s red-ball coaching setup in April 2024, resigned after less than eight months in the role. Despite guiding the Shan Masood-led team to a 2-1 series win over England, Gillespie’s relationship with the PCB reportedly soured over issues of squad selection and decision-making authority.
The resignation leaves Pakistan without a permanent head coach ahead of their two-match Test series against South Africa, beginning on Boxing Day at Centurion.
Strained Relations and Limited Authority
According to a PCB insider, Gillespie felt marginalized in critical decisions, including the announcement of the Test squad for the South Africa tour, which reportedly occurred without his input. “The board ignored his request to renew the contract of high-performance coach Tim Nielsen and failed to involve him in major decisions,” the source revealed.
Gillespie’s grievances also extended to a lack of communication with PCB officials. The former Australian cricketer reportedly experienced frequent communication breakdowns, with calls to board leaders often going unanswered.
Similar Issues Force Kirsten to Step Down
Gillespie’s resignation follows a pattern of discord within the PCB. Former South African cricketer Gary Kirsten also stepped down from his white-ball coaching role in October after only five months. Kirsten cited similar frustrations, including being excluded from discussions on Pakistan’s next white-ball captain and staffing decisions.
Aaqib Javed’s Growing Influence
Aaqib Javed, Pakistan’s interim white-ball coach and senior selector, has emerged as a key figure in the PCB’s decision-making. Reports suggest that on Javed’s recommendation, Shahid Aslam from the national cricket academy was brought into the coaching staff, replacing Tim Nielsen.
Javed, who has temporarily stepped in as the red-ball coach following Gillespie’s departure, continues to shape Pakistan cricket with significant administrative support.
Players’ Influence Adds to the Controversy
Adding to the turmoil, some senior players reportedly influenced coaching decisions based on personal preferences, further straining the relationship between the team and Gillespie. “Certain players have the backing of officials, which complicates the dynamics between the coaching staff and the squad,” the source explained.
PCB Faces a Challenging Year
Gillespie’s resignation is the latest setback in what has been a turbulent year for the PCB. From administrative upheavals to player-related controversies, the board has faced mounting challenges, including the decision to drop Babar Azam from the Test team.
As Pakistan gears up for their South Africa tour, the team must navigate these internal disruptions to focus on the crucial series ahead. Whether the PCB can stabilize its backroom operations remains to be seen.
