Jason Gillespie Set to Be Replaced as Pakistan Head Coach; Aaqib Javed to Take Over

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly set to part ways with Jason Gillespie, replacing him with Aaqib Javed as the head coach across all formats. This decision comes amid continued changes within the PCB’s leadership structure.

Gillespie, currently Pakistan’s Test coach and interim white-ball coach, is expected to leave his role after Pakistan’s final T20I against Australia on Monday, marking the end of a turbulent tenure.

Reasons Behind Gillespie’s Exit

While Gillespie’s record includes successes like Pakistan’s first ODI series win in Australia in 22 years, his tenure has been marred by controversy:

Contract Dispute: PCB wanted Gillespie to take on all-format coaching responsibilities without any increase in compensation, which he declined.
Time Spent in Pakistan: PCB officials reportedly cited Gillespie’s limited time in the country as a concern, though he maintains he fulfilled all contractual obligations and even worked additional unpaid tours.
Coaching Turnover: Gillespie’s expected departure would add to the PCB’s ongoing struggle to retain international coaching talent, with Gary Kirsten and Mickey Arthur also leaving in recent months.

Aaqib Javed’s Rapid Ascent

Aaqib Javed, who recently served as the convenor of the men’s cricket selection committee, has been chosen to replace Gillespie. His appointment is expected to last until the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, after which the PCB will reevaluate the role.

Aaqib’s Credentials:

Guided the Lahore Qalandars to consecutive PSL titles, despite previous struggles with the team.
Played a key role in Pakistan’s domestic strategy, including spin-friendly pitches during the England series.
Held coaching stints with Sri Lanka earlier this year and previously worked with the PCB’s National Cricket Academy.

PCB’s Struggles with Coaching Stability

Gillespie’s potential departure caps a chaotic year for the PCB:

Last November, Mickey Arthur was dismissed as team director, followed by the exit of head coach Grant Bradburn.
Gary Kirsten, appointed white-ball coach, resigned after just six months without coaching a single ODI.

Pakistan’s Busy Cricket Calendar

Aaqib Javed steps into his new role during a packed cricket schedule:

Australia Tour: Ongoing Test and T20I series.
Zimbabwe & South Africa: Six white-ball matches in each country.
West Indies Series: Two Tests at home in January.
Tri-Series: Featuring South Africa and New Zealand in February.
2025 Champions Trophy: Beginning February 19, hosted in Pakistan.

Final Thoughts

As Aaqib Javed takes on one of Pakistan cricket’s most challenging roles, his success will depend on navigating a packed international calendar and managing a team often under the microscope. Meanwhile, the PCB’s frequent coaching changes raise questions about long-term planning and stability.