Lahore, December 13, 2024: Pakistan cricket is facing a turbulent phase as another head coach has stepped down. Jason Gillespie, the national red-ball head coach, resigned just days before the Test series against South Africa, marking the second high-profile resignation in recent weeks.
Insider reports suggest that Gillespie’s departure stems from unresolved disputes with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The veteran Australian cricketer reportedly resigned due to the board’s refusal to meet several of his demands.
The conflict reportedly began when Gillespie was removed from the selection committee, a decision that left him dissatisfied. Adding to the tensions, he expressed interest in taking on the role of head coach for both red and white-ball formats, coupled with a request for increased compensation.
However, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi rejected the demand for a salary hike. Furthermore, the board insisted Gillespie spend more time in Pakistan, a condition he was unwilling to accept.
This resignation echoes similar issues faced with former white-ball head coach Gary Kirsten, who stepped down before the Australia series. Kirsten’s reluctance to stay in Pakistan outside of series commitments was cited as a major reason for his exit. Both coaches reportedly wanted to bring in their preferred support staff, further complicating matters.
Gillespie was scheduled to arrive in South Africa today (Friday) to oversee the pre-Test series camp but submitted his resignation on Thursday instead. Following this, the PCB appointed Aqib Javed as the interim red-ball head coach.
Interestingly, rumors about Gillespie’s potential resignation had been circulating since Kirsten’s departure. However, the PCB had dismissed these reports, asserting that Gillespie would continue in his role.
Gillespie had previously made it clear that he wasn’t interested in a full-time coaching position for the white-ball format. During an interview in Melbourne last month, he stated, “I’ve only taken over white-ball format coaching on an interim basis. I am not keen on coaching permanently in the white-ball format at the moment.”
He further emphasized the challenges of prolonged international commitments, adding, “I love coaching, but I don’t believe I can spend 11 months away from home. I also don’t think I could mentally handle it.”
