PCB include Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten in men’s head coach unit

Jason Gillespie (Photo by Nick Wood/Getty Images)

In a major development for Pakistan Cricket, the board recently came forward to announce the appointment of former South Africa batter and coach Gary Kirsten as the national team’s head coach in limited overs cricket. Furthermore, former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie has been appointed head coach of the Test team.

The changes come after the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) went through months of turmoil where the coaching staff, captains, and players went through several changes after the side’s performance in the ODI World Cup 2023 in India, where Pakistan failed to reach the semi-final.

It is worth noting that Gary Kirsten led the Indian team to their second ODI World Cup in 2011 and has also coached South Africa’s men’s team in addition to several stints in club and franchise cricket.

I’m really keen for Pakistan to play our way: Jason Gillespie

After the appointment, former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie came forward to talk about how excited he was to work with Pakistan cricket and opined that he is very keen on seeing the national team play his way. He revealed that he wants the team to be authentic and genuine. 

“I’m really keen for Pakistan to play our way. Let’s entertain our fans with a bit of fun and play with smiles on our faces,” Gillespie told Al Jazeera.

It is worth noting that Grant Bradburn left as Pakistan’s head coach two months after the ODI World Cup. His departure was followed by team director Mickey Arthur and batting coach Andrew Puttick’s departures as well. 

After the round of departures, Mohammed Hafeez took up the role of head coach and team director. The change was made after the side’s tour to Australia and New Zealand, both of which were won by the hosts as Pakistan came home empty-handed. 

With the T20 World Cup looming on the horizon, the PCB will hope that the change in personnel could go a long way for the national team and be the start of a resurgence.