The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Jason Gillespie as the head coach of the men’s cricket team for the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia, following the sudden resignation of Gary Kirsten. Kirsten stepped down just six months into his role, citing irreconcilable differences with the PCB over the recent shift in selection power to an independent committee.
Gillespie’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture, as Pakistan prepares for three ODIs and three T20Is against Australia, with the series set to start on November 4 at Melbourne Cricket Ground. The tour is an important lead-up to Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy campaign next year.
Kirsten’s departure raised questions about PCB’s structural changes, which limited the selection authority of coaches, a move that reportedly left both Kirsten and Gillespie feeling sidelined. Although disappointed with the changes, Gillespie has committed to guiding Pakistan through the series, leveraging his extensive experience to navigate the upcoming challenges.
As the PCB considers potential permanent replacements, sources suggest that Aaqib Javed, currently part of the selection committee, is a strong candidate due to his tactical insight and local expertise.
The first group of players departs for Melbourne on October 28, with the rest of the squad following on October 29, reflecting the PCB’s urgency to ensure team preparedness. With Gillespie at the helm, Pakistan aims to build momentum and cohesion as they enter this critical period of international competition.
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