Jason Gillespie’s resume makes him a strong contender for many coaching jobs, but there’s no doubt that his Pakistani citizenship also carries weight. The fascination with Pakistan and, in some cases, the Australian way of playing the game has forced curators, like dressing room mentors, to have a different role. A few weeks ago, Shane Watson was the main candidate for the white ball coaching job, but he withdrew. Since then, Gillespie has been the first-choice Test coach and is said to have agreed a deal with Gary Kirsten, who took over as white-ball coach, a few weeks ago.
But Gillespie has failed to become a respected coach by telling the side what they want to hear and, in his first speech since his appointment, warned that Pakistan should not just copy Australia or any other side. “My philosophy is not to try to be someone you’re not,” he told PCB’s internal media channel in a podcast.
“You have to prove how you go about it. I will come out and say: just be positive, be aggressive, be happy. Play with a smile on your face and entertain our fans. You have to change, that Test cricket will test your skills, abilities mental and your patience, “We want to see it consistent, so hopefully the board will look good and we can get some wins.”
The former Australian fast bowler has held a number of coaching positions since last playing international cricket in 2006. Most successfully, Gillespie was head coach of Yorkshire from 2011-16, winning in his first season overseeing promotion from the Second Division. Last name in 2014 and 2015. He has also held T20 training with Punjab Kings and Adelaide Strikers, Sussex, and South Australia.
I have coached in various positions around the world for a while, but one thing I have never done is the coach of the international Test team. When the opportunity came up, I jumped at it.
“The way Pakistan play and Pakistan have talented and skilled players, it’s good to be part of the team, I hope I can help the team grow, improve and play exciting cricket.”
