Jason Gillespie labeled Aaqib Javed “a clown” for allegedly undermining him and Gary Kirsten to assume their roles as coaches. Javed criticized the instability in the team’s coaching structure and selectors. Gillespie’s caustic response underscores ongoing tensions within Pakistan cricket leadership.
Former Pakistan Test head coach Jason Gillespie recently referred to Aaqib Javed, his successor, as “a clown”. Gillespie alleged that Javed had undermined him and former white-ball coach Gary Kirsten in his pursuit to take over their respective roles. Both Gillespie and Kirsten were appointed in April 2024, yet both resigned before the year concluded, leading to Javed’s appointment as head coach.
Gillespie’s remarks followed a social media post where Aaqib criticized the Pakistan cricket setup, citing the team’s dismal performance. He highlighted the excessive changes in coaching staff and selectors, stating, “We changed 16 coaches in the last two-and-a-half years and 26 selectors. If you do this to any team in the world, their performance would be the same.”
In response to Aaqib’s comments, Gillespie humorously dismissed the remarks on social media, emphasizing that Javed engaged in deceitful behavior whilst coercing the coaching setup to secure his position. He remarked, “This is hilarious. Aaqib was clearly undermining Gary and I behind the scenes, campaigning to be the coach in all formats. He is a clown.”
Gary Kirsten, the former South African batter, held his position for merely six months before resigning in October 2024. Gillespie temporarily took charge during the white-ball series against Australia in Kirsten’s absence, achieving success in the one-day series but falling short in the T20 series. Eventually, Aaqib assumed a permanent role as head coach.
Moreover, Gillespie resigned from his position as Test head coach in December 2024, shortly after his removal from Pakistan’s selection panel amid their Test series against England.
In summary, Jason Gillespie’s remarks against Aaqib Javed reflect his dissatisfaction with the coaching dynamics within the Pakistan cricket team. Javed’s criticisms of the team’s structure and Gillespie’s humorous rebuttal highlight the tensions amongst the coaching staff. The rapid turnover of coaches and selectors raises concerns about the stability and future direction of Pakistan cricket.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
