Gillespie sets high standards for Pakistan Test team

 Gillespie sets high standards for Pakistan Test team

Asher Butt 

Pakistan’s new head coach, Jason Gillespie, laid out his vision for the Pakistan Test team, emphasizing the importance of fitness, consistency, and developing a distinct identity in the world of cricket.

Gillespie addressed the media on Sunday shortly after arriving in the country. In his first press conference, Gillespie, the former Australian fast bowler, made it clear that there would be no compromise on fitness. “National teams are not where you still question a player’s value. If there are any perceptions about a player’s place, he has to change it with his performances and attitude,” he stressed. 

He further emphasized that fitness is non-negotiable in modern cricket, stating, “My mantra is that we should only have fit, robust, and strong players in the Test side because in modern-day cricket of any format, fitness is a must.”

While Gillespie expressed his desire for the team to play positive cricket, he rejected the ‘Bazball’ approach, advocating instead for a more strategic and situation-based style of play. “To me, Test cricket is always about playing it session to session and seizing the opportunity when it comes your way. The match is dictated by the opposition and conditions,” he explained. Gillespie highlighted Pakistan’s talent but pointed out inconsistency in performances as a significant issue. “The Pakistan cricket team is very talented, but the lack of consistency in performances is the main problem. We will see how we can bring continuity and consistency in performances,” he said.

Gillespie shared his excitement about his new role and his collaboration with Gary Kirsten, Pakistan’s white-ball coach. “Both me and Gary are very excited about these assignments. I have exchanged views with him, and obviously, we can help each other reach our goals in red and white ball cricket,” he said. Gillespie emphasized his commitment to developing a strong and cohesive team. “I want Pakistan to play in authentic Pakistan style and create an identity for itself. What I know is that Pakistan has the talent to do well. It is just about honing these players to work together to get consistently good results,” he remarked.

Gillespie will travel to Australia with the Shaheens for the four-day games against Bangladesh, allowing him to assess the talent up close. He also mentioned his conversations with Shan Masood, Pakistan’s red-ball captain, and expressed optimism about playing positive cricket. Gillespie plans to discuss the style of cricket with the players and select the team based on the opposition and conditions. “If a player is good for the team, he will definitely be selected. I’m in contact with Gary Kirsten for players’ workload management,” he noted.

Identifying fielding as a weak point for Pakistan, Gillespie made it his priority to improve it. “For me, the goal is to see how we play against quality sides,” he maintained. Gillespie also addressed Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the World Cup and the calls for Babar Azam’s removal from captaincy, stating that the PCB was best placed to make decisions regarding leadership.

Jason Gillespie’s arrival marks a new chapter for Pakistan’s Test team, with a strong emphasis on fitness, consistency, and developing a unique playing style. His strategic approach and commitment to high standards are expected to bring significant improvements to the team’s performance on the international stage.