Pakistan cricket is undergoing some significant changes as they prepare for their upcoming Test series against South Africa. Following Gary Kirsten’s resignation as the white-ball coach last month, Jason Gillespie has now also stepped down as the red-ball coach, with Aqib Javed appointed as his interim replacement. This shake-up marks a new chapter for the team as they face an important series ahead.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed Gillespie’s resignation and announced that Aqib Javed will take over as the interim red-ball coach for the two-match Test series against South Africa. “Aqib’s first assignment will be the Test series during the ongoing all-format tour,” the PCB stated.
Gillespie’s decision to step down came after the PCB chose not to extend Tim Nielsen’s contract as assistant coach, which led to disagreements. As a result, Gillespie decided against joining the team in South Africa.
Aqib Javed, who has already been serving as the interim white-ball coach, will now take on the red-ball role for the series. The first Test kicks off on December 26 in Centurion, with the second Test set for January 3 in Cape Town.
Earlier this year, Gary Kirsten resigned as white-ball coach just six months after taking the role. Aqib Javed briefly took over as interim coach before the Zimbabwe tour, following Gillespie’s temporary appointment during Pakistan’s Australia tour in November.