Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie has stressed the importance of fitness as the team prepares for their two-match red-ball series against Bangladesh in August. Following Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup, the team faced significant backlash from former cricketers and fans, particularly regarding fielding, inconsistency, and player fitness.
Criticism from former Pakistan cricketers, including Wasim Akram and Kamran Akmal, highlighted concerns about the players’ fitness levels. Gillespie aims to address this issue, stating, “In international cricket, you have to remain fit, there are no questions on that. Everyone should know about the importance of fitness. It is the main component of a sportsman,” as quoted by Geo News.
With Babar Azam reinstated as the white-ball captain, Shan Masood is expected to lead the team in the upcoming Test series. Gillespie has had conversations with Masood and plans to discuss the team’s approach with the players. “I have talked to Shan Masood [Pakistan’s red-ball captain] one to two times. I’m hoping we will play positive cricket. I will [also] discuss with the players about what brand of cricket they want to play, and the team will be selected while taking the opposition and conditions in mind,” he said.
Gillespie also mentioned his collaboration with Gary Kirsten, Pakistan’s white-ball coach, for managing players’ workloads. “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 added.
The former Australian pacer emphasized his focus on red-ball cricket and his efforts to improve the team through discussions with previous coaches. “My focus is red-ball cricket. I will also travel to Australia and watch their players. I have talked with Jeff Lawson and Shaun Tait [Pakistan’s former bowling coach] about the Pakistan cricket team,” Gillespie said.
Pakistan’s Test series against Bangladesh will begin on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with the second Test scheduled for August 30 at the National Stadium Karachi.
