The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed rumours of Jason Gillespie’s impending dismissal as the Test head coach.
Contrary to reports circulating in the media, the PCB affirmed that Gillespie will continue in his role for the upcoming two red-ball matches against South Africa. These rumours had incorrectly pointed to Aaqib Javed, a former pacer and PCB selection committee member, as Gillespie’s replacement across formats.
In a statement, the PCB emphasized, “PCB strongly refutes the story. As announced previously, Jason Gillespie will continue to coach the Pakistan side for the two red-ball matches against South Africa.”
This clarification comes after Gary Kirsten resigned from the white-ball team coaching position, leaving a gap in the coaching lineup before the ongoing tour of Australia.
PCB strongly refutes the story. As announced previously, Jason Gillespie will continue to coach the Pakistan side for the two red-ball matches against South Africa. https://t.co/J5MYKuq368
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 17, 2024Kirsten’s departure was reportedly due to disagreements with the PCB regarding various issues, including his reluctance to stay in Pakistan as required by his contract, preferring to join the team shortly before series or tours. Furthermore, Kirsten failed to meet his availability obligations during and after the Champions Cup, despite reminders of his contractual commitment to be available for 11 months of the year.
Read: Aaqib Javed Set as Pakistan’s New White-Ball Head Coach
Pakistan’s cricket schedule includes white-ball matches against Zimbabwe, featuring three ODIs and as many T20Is, from November 24 to December 5. This will be followed by an extensive all-format series against South Africa, which includes three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests scheduled from December 10 to January 7.
