Jason Gillespie criticized Aaqib Javed, Pakistan’s interim head coach, for campaigning for coaching roles across formats, calling him a \”clown\”. Javed had emphasized the negative effects of frequent management changes on the team’s performance. Despite the controversy, Javed will continue as head coach for Pakistan’s tour to New Zealand.
Jason Gillespie, a former Australian cricketer, has voiced his criticism regarding Aaqib Javed, the current interim head coach of Pakistan. Gillespie condemned Javed for allegedly campaigning for the all-format coaching position while labeling him a “clown” on social media. His remarks follow Javed’s statements regarding the detrimental impact of frequent management changes on Pakistan’s cricket performance.
Javed expressed concern over the instability caused by numerous coaching and selection changes, noting that Pakistan has experienced almost 16 coaches and 26 selectors over the past two years. “You put that formula on any team in the world, I think they will also be in the same situation. Until you get consistency right from the top down to the bottom… your team will not progress,” he remarked at a recent press conference.
Gillespie described Javed’s comments as “hilarious,” alluding to their inconsistent nature. Gillespie had held the position of Pakistan’s Test coach for a short time until December 2024, resigning prior to a series in South Africa after an unsuccessful tenure. His departure marked the second exit of a foreign coach from Pakistan’s setup in just two months, following Gary Kirsten’s resignation as limited-overs coach in October.
Furthermore, Gillespie accused Javed of undermining both himself and Kirsten while vying for the head coach position across formats. Despite his interim role being expected to conclude after the Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Cricket Board has yet to announce a successor, leading to Javed continuing in his position for the upcoming tour to New Zealand scheduled to start on March 16.
In summary, Jason Gillespie’s criticism of Aaqib Javed underscores the ongoing turmoil within Pakistan’s cricket coaching structure. Javed’s campaign for greater authority amid concerns over frequent changes highlights a broader issue impacting team performance. As the Pakistan Cricket Board seeks stability, Javed’s interim coaching role extends into the upcoming tour of New Zealand despite criticism from former coaches.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
