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In a move signaling ongoing changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Jason Gillespie is set to be relieved of his duties as head coach of the Pakistan national team across formats. The PCB has chosen Aaqib Javed to take over, marking a significant shift in leadership as the team prepares for a packed cricket schedule leading up to the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
Aaqib Javed’s Appointment
The PCB is expected to announce the decision as early as Monday, coinciding with Pakistan’s final T20I against Australia, a series already lost 2-0. Gillespie, currently Pakistan’s Test coach and interim white-ball coach, will conclude his tenure following the match.
Aaqib Javed, who was recently appointed as the convenor of the men’s selection committee, will take on the coaching role until the Champions Trophy in February 2025. A longer-term decision on the position will follow the tournament.
Why the Change?
The PCB initially sought to retain Gillespie as an all-format coach but faced issues surrounding his contract. He was reportedly asked to take on expanded responsibilities without an increase in remuneration, a proposition he declined. Additionally, PCB officials cited Gillespie’s limited time spent in Pakistan as a factor in their decision, although the coach maintains he fulfilled all contractual obligations and even undertook additional unpaid assignments.
Gillespie’s tenure has been eventful, including Pakistan’s first ODI series victory in Australia in 22 years and a notable 2-1 Test series win against England at home. However, his early losses, including a home Test defeat to Bangladesh, and challenges with administrative alignment, have seemingly hastened his departure.
The Road to Aaqib Javed’s Selection
Initially, the PCB considered other candidates, including Azhar Mahmood and Saqlain Mushtaq, both of whom have prior coaching experience with Pakistan. However, internal advisory circles did not rally enough support for their appointments, paving the way for Aaqib’s rise.
Aaqib brings a varied resume, including coaching stints with the Lahore Qalandars, where he led the franchise to consecutive PSL titles but also experienced bottom-placed finishes. He has also worked as Sri Lanka’s bowling coach earlier this year. His recent contributions as a member of the selection committee and his success in designing strategies for spin-friendly pitches have bolstered his reputation.
Challenges Ahead for Aaqib Javed
Aaqib faces a demanding schedule as Pakistan navigates a busy season:
- November-December 2024: White-ball series against Zimbabwe and South Africa.
- January 2025: Two home Tests against the West Indies.
- February 2025: Tri-series with South Africa and New Zealand.
- February-March 2025: Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
The new head coach’s primary focus will be preparing the team for the Champions Trophy, a critical event hosted on home soil.
A Tumultuous Year for Pakistan Coaching
The PCB’s coaching setup has undergone significant upheaval in the past year. Mickey Arthur and Grant Bradburn departed in late 2023, followed by the abrupt resignation of Gary Kirsten, who left without overseeing a single ODI. Gillespie’s tenure, though marked by a few historic highs, now seems set to end after less than a year in charge.
What Lies Ahead?
As Aaqib steps into his most high-profile role yet, he inherits a team with strong potential but also challenges in consistency. His ability to adapt quickly and unify the team under his leadership will be key to Pakistan’s success in the upcoming international assignments.
The PCB’s revolving door for coaches continues to reflect broader administrative instability, but Aaqib’s appointment could signal a shift toward stability—if results follow.
