Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) internal management and professionalism have come under renewed scrutiny after former Test head coach Jason Gillespie claimed he felt increasingly sidelined and disrespected during his tenure.
The former Australian fast bowler also alleged that the PCB has yet to pay him thousands of dollars owed under his contract, adding to growing criticism of the board’s handling of its coaching staff.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Gillespie said his relationship with Pakistan cricket began to deteriorate after Aaqib Javed took over as chief selector. According to Gillespie, Aaqib’s influence over major team decisions grew significantly, while his own responsibilities as head coach were gradually reduced.
‘I Was No Longer Involved in Decisions’
Gillespie said that when he initially took charge, he was involved not only in overseeing the Test team, players and support staff but also in selection matters.
However, he claimed that he was later excluded from virtually all major decisions. The experience, he said, left him mentally distressed and caused him to question his own ability as a coach.
Gillespie also made direct allegations against Aaqib Javed, claiming that the former Pakistan pacer did not foster a collaborative working environment and instead imposed his own decisions.
He further alleged that Aaqib considered himself extremely powerful because of his backing from the PCB chairman.
Gillespie Threatens Legal Action
Gillespie said he never wanted to compromise his principles or simply agree with others for the sake of maintaining harmony.
He also warned that he could consider legal action if Aaqib continued making negative comments about him.
Expressing frustration over the current state of Pakistan cricket, Gillespie described Aaqib Javed as the root of many of the problems facing the team. He argued that Pakistan cricket would continue to struggle as long as Aaqib remained in his position.
According to Gillespie, a capable head coach should be given sufficient time, authority and independence to rebuild the team and establish a clear long-term direction.
