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Last Updated On: May 03, 2025 10:11 AM , Published On: Nov 18, 2024 11:30 AM
PCB has denied recent claims that Jason Gillespie was fired as Pakistan's head coach. In an official statement issued on November 17, the PCB said that Gillespie will continue to coach the squad. He will be the red-ball coach for their upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa.
The statement came from multiple media sites, indicating that Gillespie had been removed from his position. Aaqib Javed had been named his replacement in all formats. PCB strongly rejects the report. Jason Gillespie will continue to coach Pakistan for the two red-ball matches against South Africa, as previously announced," the statement on X said.
Gary Kristen Resignation
There was a big gap in the team's coaching structure when Gary Kirsten resigned as head coach before the current tour of Australia. Therefore, Gillespie was given the extra responsibility of leading the white-ball squad.
Reports say Kirsten resigned due to disagreements with the PCB. He wanted to join the squad only before series, but his contract required him to stay in Pakistan. Even after being told of his duty to commit to 11 months a year, Kirsten could not guarantee his availability during and after the Champions Cup.
The PCB still trusts Gillespie to manage the red-ball team despite rumors and recent challenges in the limited-overs series against Australia. Gillespie and Pakistan need strong performances in the upcoming Test series against South Africa to improve their standing in longer-format cricket.
Pakistan and Zimbabwe
White-ball matches between Pakistan and Zimbabwe will take place from November 24 to December 5. This will include three ODIs and as many T20Is. From December 10 to January 7, Pakistan will face South Africa in all formats: three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Test matches.
The PCB has not yet announced the coach for the Zimbabwe tour, which starts right after the Australia series. With Pakistan set to host the ICC Champions Trophy, their first ICC event since the 1996 World Cup, the coming months are crucial for both the PCB and Pakistan cricket.