Newly appointed Pakistan red ball coach Jason Gillespie emphasized the importance of a fitness culture in the team as he held his first press conference after arriving in the country on Sunday.
Regarded as one of Australia’s best bowlers in history, Gillespie is excited to work with the Pakistan cricket team and has also confirmed that he will travel to Australia with the Shaheens.
“I am excited to work with the Pakistan cricket team and will also go to Australia with the Shaheens,” he said.
Apart from fitness, the former Australian cricketer also shed light on consistency and other important matters.
“During the last tour to Australia, Pakistan lost the series 3-0 but they played well. There were moments in the series when they also dominated their opponents.
He categorically said that there will be no compromises in the fitness of the players as in international cricket, there are no excuses for fitness.
“Everyone should know about the importance of fitness in international cricket. It is the main part of the athlete.
“I have spoken to Shane Masood [Pakistan’s red-ball captain] once or twice, I hope we will play positive cricket. I will [also] discuss with the players what brand of cricket they want to play, the team will be selected considering the opponents and the conditions .
“If a player is good for the team, he will definitely be selected. I’m in touch with Gary Kirsten [Pakistan’s white-ball coach] about managing the players’ workload.”
The former star pacer maintained that his focus is on red-ball cricket and will do everything for the betterment of the team, before adding that he wants the team to improve in the field.
I spoke to Jeff Lawson and Shaun Tait [former Pakistan bowling coach] in the Pakistan cricket team,” said Gillespie.
“There is a general perception that Pakistan’s batting is their weak point, so that would be my priority. For me, the goal is to see us play against quality teams.”
