Pakistan’s head coach Jason Gillespie recently spoke out about his restricted role following adjustments to the national cricket team’s selection panel. Gillespie, along with captain Shan Masood, was removed from the panel, significantly limiting his input on team decisions—a situation Gillespie admits he didn’t anticipate. In an interview with Sky Sports, he described his initial understanding of the role: “When I joined, I was promised a long-term plan, so I focused on ensuring clear communication. It’s frustrating when things don’t go as expected.”
Gillespie envisioned a more hands-on role, helping to shape the team’s strategy. But after Pakistan’s recent Test loss to England, a shift in the selection process sidelined both him and Masood, leaving Gillespie questioning his position. “It’s not quite what I signed up for,” he admitted, “but you have to adapt in these situations. My goal is to help the team succeed and develop players.”
Since joining, he has seen three different selection panels with over two dozen selectors coming and going since 2021. Recently, neither he nor Masood were consulted about the second Test squad or pitch preparations. Gillespie highlighted the cultural differences in managing cricket between Pakistan and his native Australia: “Things here can change quickly. I have to remind myself to respect the local approach.”
Despite these challenges, Gillespie maintains a strong connection with the players and values creating a supportive environment. He urged former Pakistan players to offer constructive feedback, noting, “Positive reinforcement from their idols can be powerful, while harsh criticism can have the opposite effect.”