'Gillespie called our system a joke, not Aaqib Javed,' says Rashid Latif

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has stated that former head coach of the national team, Jason Gillespie, did not insult Aaqib Javed, but instead used inappropriate words against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Continuing his statement, Rashid Latif said, "Jason Gillespie was referring to our system as a joke. I had a feeling that he would do this once he went back."

He added, "The same power that caused the departure of Gary Kirsten and Gillespie has now been given to Aaqib Javed. We have made Aaqib Javed both the selector and the head coach."

Rashid Latif further emphasized that the PCB needs to strike a balance in its decision-making process and change its approach. 

"Foreign coaches do not compromise on principles," he stated.

He pointed to the example of Mickey Arthur, who was strict with players, and as a result, the Pakistan team became number one in T20Is. 

"When I was the head coach of Afghanistan, the players respected the head coach like a father and tried to learn from him. Today, the results speak for themselves. In our system, players have become bigger than the game," Latif explained.

The former wicketkeeper also addressed the issue surrounding Babar Azam. 

He mentioned, "If Babar Azam feels someone has made wrong remarks about him, he should send a legal notice. I have done that myself, but the reaction of his father on social media was inappropriate."

Jaon Gillespie resigned in December 2024, two months after Gary Kirsten stepped down from his role as the head coach of the white-ball team.