Pakistan Cricket: Former Australia fast bowler and ex-Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie has sympathised with the players caught up in the latest upheaval during Pakistan’s tour of England. His comments came after Pakistan made sweeping changes following their losses in the opening two Tests, with limited-overs coach Mike Hesson taking charge of the red-ball side after Sarfaraz Ahmed and members of his support staff were removed. As many as seven players were also sent home, including Salman Ali Agha, who had captained Pakistan in the first Test.
Gillespie Questions Salman’s Sudden Omission
Gillespie highlighted Salman Ali Agha’s situation as an example of the uncertainty surrounding Pakistan cricket. The batter went from leading the side in the first Test to being left out of the next match and subsequently sent home.
“I feel for the players; this is these guys’ livelihoods,” Gillespie said, adding that, from the outside, the players appeared to be performing under pressure and fear.
He questioned how a player could be trusted with the captaincy in one Test before being removed from the squad days later.
‘They Change Their Mind Like They Change Their Pants’
Gillespie also took aim at Pakistan’s selection strategy, arguing that the team lacks a clear and stable approach.
He pointed directly towards Aaqib Javed, claiming that selection decisions appear to change constantly.
According to Gillespie, players who were removed from the squad were not even informed directly and instead learned about their fate through family members, friends or the media. He described the treatment as deeply disrespectful.
Gillespie Backs Pakistan’s Players
The former coach also defended the talent available in Pakistan, insisting that the players possess the ability to compete with the best teams in the world.
Gillespie stressed that Pakistan’s cricket problems cannot be solved through constant changes in coaching and selection alone. He argued that greater stability and support from the board and management are essential if the team is to achieve consistency on the field.
