A New Chapter for Pakistan Cricket
In a significant move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former fast bowler Aaqib Javed as the interim head coach of the national white-ball team. Javed will lead the Pakistan ODI and T20I teams until the Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9 next year.
Transition in Leadership
This appointment comes after Gary Kirsten stepped down as the white-ball coach. Jason Gillespie then served as the interim coach for the ODI and T20I series on Australian soil. Now, Javed steps into the role, bringing his extensive experience and strategic acumen to the team. During his tenure, Javed will also remain a senior member of the men’s National Selection Committee.
PCB’s Recruitment Plans
The PCB has announced that it will begin the recruitment process for a permanent head coach for the Pakistan national team, aiming to complete it by the end of the Champions Trophy. This strategic move is part of the board’s broader efforts to stabilize and strengthen the coaching setup.
Clarifying Rumors
There were earlier reports suggesting that Jason Gillespie had been removed as the head coach across all three formats. However, the PCB refuted these claims, confirming that Gillespie will continue to coach the Pakistan side for the two-match Test series against South Africa, starting on December 26.
“PCB strongly refutes the story. As announced previously, Jason Gillespie will continue to coach the Pakistan side for the two red-ball matches against South Africa,” the PCB stated.
A Year of Changes
Pakistan cricket has seen several changes in its coaching staff this year. Gary Kirsten joined the coaching setup in April but stepped down after Pakistan’s early exit from the Men’s T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Following the tour of Australia, Pakistan will tour Zimbabwe for a T20I and ODI series, then face South Africa in a T20I and ODI series, followed by a Test series. Additionally, Pakistan will host New Zealand and South Africa for a triangular ODI series from February 8 to 14.
