Former Pakistan Test cricket coach Jason Gillespie has called his successor Aaqib Javed a “clown” and accused him of undermining both Gillespie and former white-ball coach Gary Kirsten in order to secure the coaching job for himself. Gillespie’s comments were made in response to remarks made by Aaqib following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy.
Gillespie, who had a two-year contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board, abruptly resigned as red-ball coach in December amid reports of a strained relationship with the board. Kirsten also resigned as white-ball coach shortly after, with Aaqib taking over as interim white-ball coach. Aaqib’s role has since been extended to include the upcoming tour of New Zealand.
Aaqib, who also serves as Pakistan’s national selector, admitted that the frequent changes in coaching and selection staff have not been helpful for the team’s performance. He emphasized the need for consistency in leadership from the top down in order for the team to progress.
Pakistan recently announced changes in their T20 squad, dropping star batter Babar Azam and white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the new T20 captain.
Despite the challenges faced by the team, Pakistan is gearing up for a series against New Zealand starting March 16. The team will play a five-match T20 series and a three-match ODI series under the leadership of interim head coach Aaqib Javed and newly appointed T20 captain Salman Ali Agha.
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