Jason Gillespie resigned as Pakistan’s test coach, citing undermining by interim head coach Aaqib Javed. Gillespie criticized Aaqib and highlighted issues of instability within the coaching team, while Aaqib pointed to a high turnover rate in coaching staff as detrimental to the team’s performance. Gillespie referred to Aaqib as a “clown” in response to recent comments about coaching changes.
Jason Gillespie has publicly stated that he experienced significant undermining prior to his resignation as coach of the Pakistan test cricket team in December. In a recent social media post, he referred to interim head coach Aaqib Javed as a “clown.” Gillespie, who had a notable playing career for Australia from 1996 to 2006, was appointed as Pakistan’s coach in April, but left the position less than eight months later due to a lack of success.
His departure followed that of South African Gary Kirsten, who resigned from his role as limited-overs coach just two months earlier. Aaqib Javed, who is serving as both Pakistan’s national selector and interim head coach, acknowledged that frequent changes in coaching staff have hindered the national team’s performance, particularly following their failure to progress in the Champions Trophy.
At a news conference, Aaqib noted, “We have changed nearly 16 coaches and 26 selectors in the last two years or so. You put that formula on any team in the world, I think they will also be in the same situation.” He emphasized the need for consistency from the top down if the team is to improve.
In response, Gillespie criticized Aaqib’s comments as “hilarious” on Instagram, suggesting that Aaqib had been working behind the scenes to position himself as the primary coach in all formats. Aaqib, who previously served as interim coach for the limited-overs squads, will continue in his role until a permanent replacement is named by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
In summary, Jason Gillespie’s resignation as Pakistan’s test cricket coach was marked by claims of sabotage from interim head coach Aaqib Javed. Aaqib has acknowledged the detrimental effect of constant coaching changes on the team’s performance, asserting the necessity for stability. Gillespie’s responses indicate underlying tensions within the coaching staff as Pakistan grapples with its cricketing strategy moving forward.
Original Source: apnews.com
