Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) slammed the reports that recently surfaced suggesting that Jason Gillespie might be removed from his position as head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team. Gillespie, who initially joined as Pakistan’s red-ball coach, later took over the white-ball coaching role following Gary Kirsten’s resignation.
Under Gillespie’s guidance, Pakistan faced a disappointing 2-0 Test series loss at home to Bangladesh but bounced back to secure a 2-1 series victory against England. Amid speculation about his removal, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stepped forward to address the rumours.
On November 17, ESPNcricinfo reported that Aaqib Javed was being considered for the role of all-format head coach for the Pakistan men’s team. However, the PCB quickly dismissed these claims. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the board labelled the report as false.
The PCB also confirmed that Gillespie remains in charge and will lead the team for the upcoming two red-ball matches against South Africa.
“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,” PCB wrote on ‘X’.
The further stated that Aaqib Javed would begin his tenure as head coach during Pakistan’s tour of Zimbabwe, scheduled for three ODIs and three T20Is from November 24 to December 5. Following the Zimbabwe series, Pakistan is set to visit South Africa for a white-ball series and two Test matches.
For context, Javed has previously served as Pakistan’s bowling coach and head coach for the Under-19 team. He was also part of the Lahore Qalandars' coaching staff in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and later worked as the bowling coach for Sri Lanka. However, at present, Javed does not hold any head coaching responsibilities with the Pakistan senior team.
