Jason Gillespie declines full-time coaching role for Pakistan's white-ball team

Former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie has clarified that he is not seeking a full-time coaching position with Pakistan's white-ball cricket team.

Speaking to Australian media, Gillespie emphasized that his current role as Pakistan’s interim white-ball coach is a temporary arrangement and not part of his long-term plans.

The former Australian cricketer, who primarily coaches Pakistan's red-ball squad, explained that he hadn't applied for a permanent white-ball role.

"I love coaching, but I don’t believe I can spend 11 months away from home. I also don’t think I could mentally handle it,” he remarked, underscoring his need for family time.

The decision to appoint Gillespie as an interim white-ball coach arose from an unexpected vacancy left by Gary Kirsten, who resigned just days before Pakistan’s departure for their Australian tour. Kirsten’s departure and Gillespie’s temporary assignment highlight the ongoing adjustments within Pakistan's coaching structure as the team continues its preparations.

The 49-year-old is serving as Pakistan's interim white-ball coach in his assignment in the ongoing white-ball series against Australia. In the first ODI the home side defeated the Men in Green by two wickets chasing down 204 runs after losing eight wickets inside the 34th over.

Pakistan has the upper hand in the second ODI bowling first and dismantling Australia for 163 runs with right-arm pacer Haris Rauf bagging his second fifer in the fifty-over format.