Jason Gillespie’s decision to step down as Pakistan’s Test coach just days before the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. Following Gillespie’s resignation, Aaqib Javed has been appointed as the interim red-ball coach, while continuing his duties with Pakistan’s white-ball t??eams.

Jason Gillespie’s resignation from Pakistan’s head coach job

Having taken charge in April 2024, Gillespie oversaw Pakistan’s impressive 2-1 series victory against England, a performance that had rekindled hope for Pakistan cricket. However, his recent public criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reveals deep-rooted dissatisfaction with the board’s management and decision-making processes. Gillespie’s resignation reflects his growing frustration with the lack of ??clarity, communication, and structural support within the PCB, highlighting an environment he deemed untenable.

The final blow: Gillespie and Pakistan Cricket Board

Gillespie’s resignation was largely driven by the PCB’s decision to terminate the services of Tim Nielsen, his senior assistant coach and high-performance expert. Nielsen’s removal, reportedly on someone’s r??ecommendation, was the final straw for Gillespie.

In an interview with ABC Radio, Gillespie revealed his frustration, stating that he received no communication regarding Nielsen’s sacking. The lack of transparency from the PCB left him feeling “completely and utterly blindsided,” For Gillespie, the removal of Nielsen, a key support figure, compromised his ability to perform effectively. Without Nielsen, Gillespie’s role was significantly reduced to mere matchday strategist, leaving him isolated from critical decision-making processes.

“The straw that broke the camel’s back I suppose was, as a head coach you like to have clear communication with your employer. And I was completely and utterly blindsided by a decision to not have high performance coach/senior assistant coach Tim Nielsen (who) was told his services were no longer required. I had absolutely zero communication from anyone about that and, after a number of other things that had gone on in the previous few months, that was probably the moment I thought ‘I’m not really sure if they want me to do this job or not,” Gillespie said.

Also READ: 3 key reasons?? behind Jason Gillespie’s resignation as Pakistan’s head ??coach

Issues with communication and authority

Gillespie’s departure highlights deeper systemic issues within the PCB. He revealed that being denied access to selectors and critical team information created significant hurdles in fulfilling his responsibilities. However, these requests for transparency were not met. Gillespie expressed his frustration, saying that the lack of proper communication made hi?s role increasingly difficult. His remarks suggest that decisions were made without his input, making it impossible for him to contribute meaningfully to team preparations.

“You want to be able to have clear communication with all stakeholders, with selectors for instance, and knowing what the team is as head coach at least the day before the game, so you can help plan and prepare the players. Those sorts of things proved to be quite difficult and that just made things more difficult to do my job effectively. And then with the news the board decided not to let Tim travel to South Africa, I’ve heard that was on the recommendation of someone which I felt made my job untenable,” Gillespie concluded.

Gillespie’s tenure and key achievements

Gillespie assumed the role of Pakistan’s Test coach in April 2024, following Gary Kirsten’s appointment as the head coach of Pakistan’s white-ball teams. Together, they were expected to steer Pakistan cricket toward greater success. Gillespie’s leadership was marked by a remarkable series win over England, a moment that seemed to promise stability and renewed ambition for Pakistan’s red-ball cricket. However, as time progressed, cracks began to appear in his relationship with the PCB. In addition to his role as Test coach, Gillespie was entrusted with overseeing Pakistan’s white-ball cricket during Australia’s tour, after the resignation of Kirsten, where they triumphed in the ODI series.

Also READ: Top 5 New Zealand players with most sixes in Test cricket ft. Tim ??Southee

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Jason Gillespie‘s sudden resignation as Pakistan‘s red-ball head coach has plunged Pakistan cricket into uncertainty. Appointed in April this year, Gillespie’s tenure was intended to bring stability and success to Pakistan’s Test team. However, his decision to step down less than two weeks before a high-stakes Test series against South Africa exposes underlying tensions within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

A setback for Pakistan cricket ahead of South Africa tests

This development comes on the heels of Gary Kirsten’s departure as white-ball head coach, further highlighting Pakistan’s ongoing struggles to maintain stability in their coa??ching setup.

Gillespie’s brief stint as head coach had its moments of success, including a Test series victory at home against England in October, marking Pakistan’s first Test series win on home soil in over three years. He also stepped in as interim white-ball coach for the tour of Australia, guiding Pakistan to an ODI series win. Despite these achievements, his tenure was overshadowed by internal discord, management conflicts, and dissatisfaction over the PCB’s handling of coaching roles.

With Aaqib Javed stepping in as interim head coach for both r?ed-ball and white-ball formats, the PCB faces significant challenges in finding a permanent replacement capable of navigating the team through the upcoming Test s??eries and the ICC Champions Trophy.

3 potential factors that led to Jason Gillespie’s resignation 

1. Conflicts over selection authority and decision-making

A major factor contributing to Gillespie’s resignation was his lack of control over team selections. Several media reports indicated that Javed, who served as both selector and interim white-ball coach, wielded significant influence in team decisions, leaving Gillespie sidelined in key strategic discussions. Despite his role as head coach, Gillespie reportedly had minimal input in finalizing playing XIs, reducing him to a mere facilitator rather than a decision-maker. His frustrations with this arrangement were evident in October when he described his role as that of a “matchday strategist” rather than a traditional head coach.

2. Dissatisfaction over the handling of support staff contracts

Gillespie’s frustrations were further compounded by the non-renewal of Tim Nielsen’s contract as the high-performance red-ball coach. Nielsen, who had worked closely with Gillespie, was let go without consulting the head coach, leaving him blindsided and undermined. The decision, reportedly conveyed to Gillespie by Nielsen himself, deepened the rift between Gillespie and the PCB. This lack of communication and disregard for Gillespie’s input in support staff decisions highlighted the PCB’s failure to create a collaborative working environme??nt.

3. Unrealistic demands and lack of professional respect

According to the Geo Tv report, Gillespie also faced additional pressures from the PCB, including requests to spend more time in Pakistan outside of series commitments. While such demands may align with PCB’s long-term vision, they clashed with Gillespie’s professional boundaries and personal commitments. The PCB’s refusal to meet his demands for a salary increase and greater decision-making authority further strained the relationship. The board’s treatment of foreign coaches, including Kirsten, who also cited unprofessional behavior as a reason for his resignation, points to a broader systemic issue within Pakistan cricket’s management.

Also READ: South Africa announces squad for the OD?I seri??es against Pakistan; Temba Bavuma to lead

Implications for Pakistan cricket

Gillespie’s resignation leaves Pakistan in a precarious position as they prepare for a crucial Test series against South Africa, followed by the ICC Champions Trophy. The lack of continuity in coaching roles undermines team morale and disrupts long-term planning. While Javed’s appointment a?s interim head coach may provide temporary relief, the PCB must address its internal management issues to attract and retain hi??gh-caliber coaches.

This scenario is yet another reminder of the need for professionalism??, transparency, and mutual respect in managing international cricket teams. As Pakistan cricket looks to rebuild, the PCB faces the dual challenge of restoring credibility and creating an environment conducive to sustained success on the global stage.

Also READ: South Africa’s Anrich Nortje ruled out of the white-ball series a??ga?inst Pakistan; replacement announced for T20Is

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In a significant development for Pakistan cricket, former Australian seamer Jason Gillespie has officially stepped down from his role as the head coach of the Pakistan Test team. This move comes after just seven months in the position, highlighting the tumultuous relationship between international coaches and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

A brief tenure of Jason Gillespie

Notably, Gillespie was appointed in April 2024 with much fanfare, tasked with bolstering Pakistan’s Test cricket, which had seen fluctuating performances. His contract was for two years, but his tenure was cut short due to a series of disagreements and structural changes within the team’s management. Gillespie’s time with Pakistan was marked by a few notable achievements:

• A 2-1 series win against England at home, which was Pakistan’s first Test series victory on home soil since 2021.
• Leading the team to an ODI series win in Australia, marking Pakistan’s first such victory on Australian soil in 22 years.

Despite these successes, the relationship with the PCB deteriorated, primarily due t?o issues surrounding team selection and coaching st?aff decisions.

The breaking point

The final straw appears to have been the PCB’s decision not to renew the contract of Gillespie’s assistant coach, Tim Nielsen. Gillespie was reportedly not consulted about this decision, which he found to be a sign of disrespect. This, coupled with earlier tensions where his role was reduced to that of a ‘matchday strategist’ after being removed from the selection panel, led to his decision to resign.

Gillespie’s refusal to board a flight to South Africa for the upcoming Test series was the public signal of his discontent. His decision was made official on December 12, 2024, with the PCB confirming his departure and naming Aqib Javed as the int?erim coach for the red-ball series against South Africa.

Also READ: South Africa announces squad for the ODI series against Pakistan; T?emba Bavuma? to lead

Interim coach announced

Javed, now stepping in, brings his own set of? experiences, having previously worked with Pakistan at various levels. However, th??e challenge will be to maintain team morale and continue the developmental trajectory set by Gillespie.

“The PCB has named former Pakistan paceman Aaqib Javed as interim red-ball head coach following the resignation of Jason Gillespie,” read a media release by PCB.

Javed, who has been serving as Pakistan’s interim white-ball coach since Gary Kirsten’s departure in October, will now take charge for the two-Test series in South Africa, beginning on December 26 in Centurion.

Also READ: Wasim Akram voic??es confidence in Pakistan’s readiness to host Champions? Trophy 2025

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Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie has recently shared his thoughts on the modern-cricket finest bowlers and picked two pacers as ‘unplayable�? Notably, Gillespie was himself on?e of the finest bowlers for Australia and him naming two pacers in modern-day cricket tells a lot about the qu??alities these pacers have.

Jason Gillespie reveals his selections for top bowlers

Gillespie heaped praises on India’s Jasprit Bumrah and Australia’s Pat Cummins and reckoned the two pacers carry tremendous qualities, identifying both as bowlers who bring a unique and relentless edge to the game. He commended them for their ability to keep batters under constant pressure with a mix of pace, challenging lines, and precision. According to Gillespie, both Bumrah and Cummins are skilled at exploiting weaknesses in the batter’s technique, always pushing them to make critical decisions that can lead to a mistake.

“Their major strength is they are pretty relentless in attacking the batters. They have a good pace, bowl challenging lines and lengths, and are always forcing batsmen into tough decisions. They have a good pace, bowl challenging lines and lengths. They are always asking questions about batsmen’s technique. They are always making sure that the batsman has to make good decisions or they will get themselves out,” said Gillespie as quoted by Indian Express.

Also READ: Not Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli! Scott Boland names the key India player as Australia’s top target in BGT 20?24-25

Unplayable accuracy and wicket-taking ability

Gillespie also emphasized the ability of Bumrah and Cummins to deliver “unplayable” balls, describing how they possess the rare knack of creating wicket-taking opportunities from nowhere. He noted that whether it’s through late swing, a burst of extra pace, or subtle movement off the pitch, these bowlers have a way of surprising even the best batters.

“So�?they are relentless with their accuracy and discipline but they also can bowl those unplayable deliveries. Whether it swings really late or it just has that extra half-yard of pace or it just does something off the surface which not a lot of bowlers have. They just have a knack for creating a wicket when there doesn’t seem to be a wicket. They just create opportunities seemingly out of nowhere,” added Gillespie.

Also READ: Fans laud Dhruv Jurel’s fighting knock on Day 1 of the unofficial Test between India A and Austr??alia A

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Pakistan are set to kick off their white-ball leg with a demanding series against Australia, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is, starting with the first ODI on November 4 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This series is poised to be a significant test as Pakistan begins a new chapter under Jason Gillespie, their newly appointed white-ball coach, who returns to his homeland in this pivotal role. Gillespie’s tenure comes after the abrupt departure of Gary Kirsten, who resigned just day??s prior, m??arking a swift leadership change.

Riding momentum and leadership shifts

Pakistan enters this series buoyed by recent success, having secured a 2-1 victory in a home Test series against England. This success has infused confidence in the team, led by newly appointed ODI and T20I captain Mohammad Rizwan. Rizwan, already a stalwart behind the stumps and a prolific performer with the bat, now shoulders the dual responsibility of captaincy and wicketkeeping. Pakistan’s lineup features star players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah, who are eager to make a statement after being rested during the Test series win over England. Their return is expected to add firepower to Pakistan’s challenge against the reigning world champions.

A potent pace battery and tactical options

The squad boasts a formidable five-strong pace attack comprising Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Aamer Jamal. There is speculation about the possibility of deploying all five pacers, contingent on Aamer Jamal‘s role as a lower-order batter at number seven and the inclusion of Agha Salman, an off-spinning?? all-rounder, at number six. However, such an approach may be deemed too audacious, even under Gillespie’s innovative leadership.

Also READ: 3 reasons why Mohammad Rizwan’s appointment as Pakistan’s white-ball captain is a cl?ever move by PCB

Spinning solutions and future stars

Expect to see Kamran Ghulam, whose recent performances against England bolstered his credentials as a dependable spinning all-rounder. Additionally, 19-year-old Arafat Minhas is a potential inclusion, offering fresh l??eft-arm spin and a glimpse into Pakistan’s promising future. This mix of experience and youthful exuberance aims to provide a ?well-rounded challenge against Australia’s strong batting and bowling line-up.

Pakistan’s top-choice playing XI for the ODI series against Australia

1. Abdullah Shafique (Opening Batter)

• Role: Top-order batter
• Strengths: Technically sound with a calm approach and an ability to build long innings. Shafique is known for his composure and technique, making him ideal for facing Australia’s new-ball bowlers.
• Impact in Australia: His patience and strong back-foot play can counter the bounce and pace on Australian pitches, providing stability at the top.

2. Saim Ayub (Opening Batter)

• Role: Aggressive opening batter
• Strengths: Explosive at the top with a natural attacking game. Ayub has a fearless approach, capable of taking advantage of powerplays.
• Impact in Australia: His aggressive batting can put pressure on Australia’s bowlers early, leveraging the true bounce of Australian pitches for quick runs.

3. Babar Azam (Top-order Batter)

• Role: No. 3 batter, team captain
• Strengths: World-class batter with exceptional timing, consistency, and leadership qualities. He anchors the innings and accelerates as needed.
• Impact in Australia: Babar’s adaptability and skill against pace and spin make him a key player for scoring runs in challenging conditions, ensuring momentum through the middle overs.

4. Muhammad Irfan Khan (Middle-order Batter)

• Role: Middle-order batter
• Strengths: Compact technique and strong against spin. Irfan provides depth to the middle order and can rotate strike effectively while accelerating when necessary.
• Impact in Australia: His ability to stabilize innings after quick wickets can be crucial on Australian surfaces where the ball can come on quickly.

5. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain, Wicketkeeper-Batter)

• Role: Middle-order batter, wicketkeeper
• Strengths: High work rate and ability to anchor or finish innings. Rizwan’s fast running between the wickets and skillful batting against pace are significant assets.
• Impact in Australia: His ability to counter high pace and play square of the wicket effectively will be vital in chasing or setting a competitive total.

6. Salman Ali Agha (Allrounder)

• Role: Middle-order batter, off-spin bowler
• Strengths: Reliable middle-order contributor with the ability to bowl economical off-spin. Salman adds flexibility and balance to the lineup.
• Impact in Australia: His experience and off-spin could be useful in breaking partnerships, while his batting can adapt to pressure situations.

7. Kamran Ghulam (Allrounder)

• Role: Batting allrounder, slow left arm part-time spinner
• Strengths: Prolific domestic performer with solid batting credentials and part-time spin capabilities. Adds depth to the batting lineup.
• Impact in Australia: His versatile batting and confidence in playing spin can help in consolidating or finishing innings effectively.

8. Aamer Jamal (Allrounder)

• Role: Lower-order batter, pace bowler
• Strengths: Strong hitter down the order with an ability to bowl medium-fast deliveries. Jamal’s batting can be game-changing in the death overs.
• Impact in Australia: With his allround ability, Jamal can provide vital breakthroughs and add quick runs at the end, crucial on high-scoring Australian tracks.

9. Shaheen Afridi (Pace Bowler)

• Role: Left-arm fast bowler
• Strengths: Renowned for his lethal new-ball spell, ability to swing the ball at high speed, and attacking mindset. Afridi excels in taking early wickets.
• Impact in Australia: His pace, bounce, and ability to bowl yorkers will be a significant threat to Australia’s top order on their fast pitches.

10. Haris Rauf (Pace Bowler)

• Role: Fast bowler
• Strengths: Express pace and exceptional death-bowling skills. Rauf is capable of unsettling batter with his speed and bouncers.
• Impact in Australia: The bouncy Australian pitches will suit his natural strengths, making him a key figure in the middle and death overs.

11. Arafat Minhas (Spinner)

• Role: Left-arm spinner,
• Strengths: Promising young talent known for controlled spin and lower-order batting. Can serve as a backup to frontline spinners.
• Impact in Australia: His left-arm spin offers variety, and his potential to bat adds depth to the lineup, giving Pakistan flexibility in adapting to match situations.

Also READ: Babar?? Azam, Shaheen Afridi re??turn as Pakistan unveils their squads for the white-ball series against Australia

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Gary Kirsten‘s sudden resignation as Pakistan’s white-ball coach has left the team in a challenging position just months before a crucial series against Australia and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Kirsten, who took on the role earlier this year, stepped down after six months, cutting short his two-year contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). His exit comes at a time when Pakistan’s white-ball side is in desperate? need of stability and strategic ??direction. Although, Pakistan have announced a new head coach for Australia tour but the main target will be the major ICC event next year.

With the Champions Trophy set to be hosted by Pakistan in early 2025, the team’s preparations have been thrown off course. The upcoming white-ball series against Australia was seen as an essential opportunity to build momentum ahead of the tournament, but without a head coach, Pakistan faces an uphill task. The PCB is now ur?gently seeking a capable replacement to steer the team through these challenges and ensure they are ready for the global event on home soil.

3 candidates who can become Pakistan’s next white-ball coach following Gary Kirsten’s departure

Jason Gillespie: Current red-ball coach could double up

Jason Gillespie, who currently serves as Pakistan’s red-ball coach, is one of the primary contenders to take over the white-ball coaching responsibilities. Gillespie has been managing the Test side, and the PCB may consider handing him dual responsibilities, at least on a temporary basis. Not to mention, he has been named as head coach for the Australia tour and therefore he can be given the full-time responsivity. Known for his strategic approach, Gillespie has worked with various international teams and franchises, making him a seasoned campaigner in the coaching arena. His familiarity with the current squad could also provide continuity for the team as they prepare for future white-ball assignments.

Aaqib Javed: National selector with proven success at home

Another potential candidate is Aaqib Javed, who is presently the national selector. Javed has earned praise for his contributions to Pakistan’s recent successes in home Test series. Under his guidance, Pakistan prepared spin-friendly pitches that helped Shan Masood‘s side secure a historic 2-1 series win over England. Given his strategic insights and familiarity with the domestic setup, Javed may be approached to take over the white-ball team. His ability to identify? and develop local talent, coupled with his tactical ??acumen, makes him a strong contender for the coaching role.

Also READ: Pakistan names new captain and vice-captain for white-?ball cricket

Mike Hesson: An experienced coach with global exposure

Mike Hesson is another name that could be considered for the role. The former head coach of the New Zealand cricket team, Hesson has a wealth of experience at both the international level and in T20 leagues. His impressive coaching resume includes stints in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Hesson’s most recent success came with Islamabad United, who won the PSL 2024 title under his guidance by defeating Multan Sultans in the final. His ability to manage teams across various formats and his understanding of modern T20 cricket could make him a valuable asset for Pakistan’s white-ball ambitions.

Choosing the next coach: Decision lies with the PCB

The PCB faces a critical decision as they evaluate three strong candidates for the role of Pakistan’s next white-ball coach. Each brings unique strengths and coaching philosophies to the table. Gillespie offers continuity and extensive experience, Javed provides strategic insights and familiarity with the domestic setup, while Hesson’s global coaching background, particularly in T20 leagues, could be a significant asset. The choice will ultimately depend on what the PCB sees as the team’s most pressing needs and long-term goals, especially with the upcoming international fixtures and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon.

Also READ: Pakistan announces their white-ball squads for the Zimbabwe series; Mohammad Rizwan rested for the T20Is? 

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In a major development for Pakistan cricket, Gary Kirsten has resigned from his position as the white-ball coach. Kirsten, who took over the role under a two-year contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in April 2024, has stepped? down after just s??ix months in charge.

Conflict with PCB over selection authority

According to reports from ESPNcricinfo, a rift emerged between Kirsten and the PCB after the board decided to revoke the coaches’ selection powers. Initially, both Kirsten and red-ball coach Jason Gillespie were part of the selection process. However, a newly established selection committee took over those responsibilities, effectively sidelining the coaches. This shift in authority led to tensions, with Gillespie openly expressing his disappointment, stating he felt reduced to just a “match-day analyst” role. While Kirsten refrained from making public comments, it was understood that he was equally discontented with the situation.

Gary Kirsten’s exit a major setback for Pakistan

Kirsten’s departure could not have come at a worse time for Pakistan, as they gear up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which they will host. He joined the national team after fulfilling his commitments with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Gujarat Titans. His first assignment was a series against England, captained by Jos Buttler, which Pakistan lost. This was followed by a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024, where Pakistan were unexpectedly defeated by co-hosts USA and later knocked out by champions India. In the aftermath, Babar Azam stepped down as captain for the white-ball formats, adding to the tea??m’s challenges. Since their exi??t from the T20 World Cup, Pakistan has not played any white-ball games, and the upcoming ODI and T20I series in Australia was seen as crucial preparation for the Champions Trophy.

Also READ: Pakistan names new ca?ptain and vice-captain for white-ball cricket

Options for PCB Following Kirsten’s Departure

With Kirsten’s exit, the PCB faces a tough decision just months before the Champions Trophy. One option would be to ask Jason Gillespie, who currently handles the red-ball side, to take on the white-ball coaching duties on a temporary basis. Another alternative could be promoting Aaqib Javed, the former fast bowler and current national selector, who has been credited with helping Pakistan end their long-standing struggles in h?ome Test matches.

Also READ: Pakist??an announces their white-ball squads for the Zimbabwe series; Mohammad Rizwan rested for the T20Is 

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In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship and camaraderie, Jason Gillespie, the head coach of Pakistan’s Red-ball cricket team, and Salman Naseer, Chief Operating Officer of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), exchanged team jerseys with Richard Thompson, Chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and Richard Gould, CEO of the ECB. This memorable exchange took place before the start of Day 2 of the second Test match between Pakistan and England.

Heartwarming display of sportsmanship between PCB and ECB officials

Gillespie exchanged his team jersey with Thompson, while Naseer exchanged his team jersey with Ri??chard.

The gesture symbolize??s not only the mutual respect between the two cricketing nations but also highlights the essence of sportsmanship that transcends competition.

Here is the video:

👕🤝

PCB chief operating officer Salman Naseer and Pakistan red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie exchanged team jerseys with ECB Chair Richard Thompson and CEO Richard Gould before the start of play today 🇵🇰🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿#PAKvENG | #TestAtHome pic.twitter.com/5Js8KUbQKw

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) October 16, 2024

Also WATCH: Joe Root’s hilarious head-shining incident with Jack Leach steals the show on ?Day 1 of 2nd Test | PAK vs ENG

Must-win match for Pakistan following first Test defeat

As the match unfolded, Pakistan entered Day 2 with a commendable total of 259 runs for the loss of five wickets. This solid foundation was bolstered by a remarkable half-century from Saim Ayub and a spectacular century from Kamran Ghulam, who celebrated his Test debut with an unforgettable per?formance.

However, as the early afternoon session progressed on Day 2, the Pakistani batting lineup faced mounting challenges and ultimately succumbed, all out for a total of 366 runs. Noman Ali, who had bee??n looking promising, was the last batter dismissed, contributing a valuable?? 32 runs.

Also WA?TCH: Jack Leach outfoxes Abdullah Shafique with his s?pin on Day 1 of the 2nd Test | PAK vs ENG

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In a significant shake-up following Pakistan‘s dismal performance in the first Test against England, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the surprising decision to drop three of its star players – Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah – from the squad for the remaining two Tests. The PCB cited concerns over the players’ poor form and fitness as the reasons behind this drastic move. While there had been growing calls for changes in the team after the Bangladesh series defeat, few expected such a bold step from the PCB, particularly in the middle of a high-stakes series against England.

Viral video: Emotional Babar Azam comforted by Jason Gillespie, Shan Masood 

Amidst this, A heartfelt moment involving Babar Azam recently surfaced online, showing the Pakistani batter visibly distressed after his exclusion from the Test squad. In the viral video, head coach Jason Gillespie, assistant coach Azhar Mahmood and captain Shan Masood were seen consoling Babar, who appeared shaken by the decision. Although the content of their conversation remains unclear, it was apparent that Babar was emotionally impacted by his removal from the side. Gi?llespie and Mahmood were seen offering support and reassurance to the player, suggesting the weight of the situation for the talented right-hander.

Here’s the video:

Looks like Jason Glipssie, Azhar Mahmood and Shan Masood are not happy with the exclusion of Babar Azam… pic.twitter.com/9EOekbTrR8

— Hassan Abbasian (@HassanAbbasian) October 13, 2024

Also READ: Ben Stokes returns as England name playing XI for the se??con??d Test against Pakistan

Babar’s decline in form: A growing concern

Babar’s struggles with the bat in Test cricket have been well-documented. Since his stellar innings of 161 against England in Karachi in December 2022, Babar’s performance has plummeted. Over the course of his last nine Tests, he has accumulated just 366 runs at a worrying average of 20.33. His drop in form has coincided with twice stepping down from the captaincy within a year, adding further pressure on his shoulders. Pakistan’s prolonged slump, which includes six consecutive Test defeats and an 11-match winless streak on home soil, has placed even greater scrutiny on Babar’s role within the team.

Pakistan’s struggles against a dominant England

Pakistan’s first Test against England was a disaster, losing by an innings and 47 runs despite posting over 500 runs in their first innings. With two Tests still remaining in the series, Pakistan faces a monumental task to turn their fortunes around. England, brimming with confidence after their dominant performance, will be a formidable challenge. Pakistan’s squad will need to regroup and make crucial tactical adjustments if they hope to avoid a series whitewash. However, given England’s momentum and Pakistan’s ongoing struggles, the road ahead looks incredibly challenging for the team.

Also READ: Babar Aza??m, Shaheen Afridi dropped as Pa??kistan name squad for the 2nd and 3rd Test against England

PAK vs ENG [WATCH]: ??Jason Gillespie, Shan Masood console Babar Azam after his omission from the remaining En??gland Tests

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