Gillespie aims to bring consistency to Pakistan's Test cricket team

Former Australian cricketer, Jason Gillespie has been appointed as the head coach of Pakistan's men's Test cricket team. Gillespie brings a wealth of coaching experience to his new role, having previously coached in various positions worldwide, though this will be his first time coaching an international Test side.

Speaking in the Pakistan Cricket Board's podcast, Gillespie expressed his excitement about the opportunity to work with Pakistan's skilled and talented players, emphasizing his goal to help the team progress, improve, and play entertaining cricket. 

"The opportunity to be the head coach of Pakistan’s Test side is fantastic. It’s an honor. I've been coaching for quite a while now in various roles around the world, but one thing I haven't done is to coach an international Test side. When this opportunity presented itself, I jumped at it," Gillespie said.

Gillespie highlighted the challenges and opportunities of coaching Pakistan's Test team.  His philosophy emphasizes authenticity and consistency, allowing the team to find their style of play and perform at their best.

"Coaching Pakistan is an exciting job opportunity. I mean, the talent is there, and there are a lot of very skillful cricketers. But there’s been some inconsistency at times too. I think I can help in some way to give clarity to the team on how it goes about playing Test cricket," Gillespie said.

Regarding his role as a selector, Gillespie acknowledged the importance of communication and collaboration with other members of the selection panel and the captain. He expressed confidence in forming a strong bond with the team and improving their performance.

"I’m excited about being part of the selection committee. In my whole coaching career, I have had a role as a selector. It all comes down to clarity and communication. I’m looking forward to working with everyone on the selection panel as well as the captain. I feel good and will forge a strong bond, strong relationship, and go from there. But again, communication and clarity of thought are key," Gillespie said.

In the upcoming 2024-25 season, Pakistan will face challenging ICC World Test Championship series against Bangladesh, England, and South Africa. Gillespie is ready to take each series as it comes and prepare the team to excel in the competition.

"Obviously, the ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 for Pakistan is going to be a challenge; there’s no question about that. But, we’ll just take each series as it comes. The first opportunity that I’ll be involved in will be against Bangladesh at home, and I am looking forward to it. We’ll just take each series and each Test match as it comes," he concluded.