Coach Gillespie embraces new role as ‘match day strategist’ after being removed from selection panel

Jason Gillespie, head coach of Pakistan’s Test team, has found himself in a rather unusual position ahead of the third and decisive Test against England in Rawalpindi. After Pakistan’s heavy loss to England in the first Test in Multan, significant changes were made within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). A new selection committee, including Aleem Dar, Azhar Ali, and Aaqib Javed, was brought in to make key decisions, with both captain Shan Masood and Gillespie removed from the selection process.

At a press conference before the third Test, Gillespie acknowledged the changes, stating, “The PCB made some changes after the first Test, and now the new selection panel is making the decisions. I’m just focused on match day strategy and preparing the players.” He emphasized his shift away from selection duties, jokingly referring to himself as a “match day strategist.”

While the selectors were actively involved in preparations, Gillespie remained focused on coaching, spending his time with players during practice sessions. Despite the changes, Gillespie expressed his commitment to ensuring the team performs well, highlighting that Pakistan needs to make the most of its batting against England’s spinners in the upcoming match.

Gillespie’s role has now become solely about focusing on the players and their readiness for the game, leaving selection decisions to the newly appointed panel. As the series stands at 1-1, Pakistan hopes to build on their success from the second Test and secure a series win in Rawalpindi.