'I was disrespected': Ex-Pak coach names 'untouchable' figure behind England mess

Former Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie has accused the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of owing him thousands of dollars and criticized the governing body for its handling of the national team. Speaking to The Telegraph, Gillespie detailed how his tenure as Pakistan's Test head coach ended abruptly in December 2024, less than a year after he took the role. He claims he is still awaiting payment for services rendered and expressed frustration over being dismissed from his post. Gillespie described his experience with the PCB as deeply disillusioning. He alleged that he was disrespected and undermined during his time in the role, with much of the blame directed toward Aaqib Javed, the chief selector. Gillespie said that Javed's influence significantly altered the direction of Pakistan cricket and created a toxic environment for collaboration. “I was totally disrespected and undermined, and I direct that towards Aaqib Javed,” Gillespie said. He noted that Javed arrived with confidence and authority, asserting control over decision-making processes. Gillespie felt that Javed did not allow for input from others and operated unilaterally. The issues arose after Gillespie was hired with the intention of reviving Pakistan's fast-bowling culture. He believed the PCB aimed to create conditions conducive to fast bowling by preparing pitches that offered more bounce and carry. However, Gillespie said this vision shifted following Javed's appointment as chief selector. “I was on board and thought: 'This is going to be really cool,'” Gillespie said. “The appointment of Javed fundamentally altered the landscape. From that moment, my relationship with Pakistan cricket completely changed.” Gillespie's departure coincided with a period of turmoil for Pakistan cricket. The team suffered heavy losses in their three-match Test series against England, leading to significant changes in the squad and management structure. In response, the PCB initiated an internal investigation into the team's performance and discipline. Following the initial two Test defeats in England, the PCB made sweeping changes, sending several players home and appointing new coaches for the final Test. Reports indicated that the PCB also confiscated players' phones as part of the inquiry into the team's conduct during the tour. Gillespie acknowledged that Javed had the backing of the PCB chairman and the board, which contributed to his sense of being untouchable. “Aaqib had the support of the chairman and the board and that’s why he felt he was untouchable,” Gillespie said. “As a coach, you feel compromised. He was not a collaborative chairman of selectors. He doesn’t take on other people’s ideas, thoughts, or opinions.” Despite the financial dispute and professional disagreements, Gillespie emphasized that his decision to speak out was rooted in principle. “I wasn’t going to compromise on my principles,” he said. “I could have stayed quiet, agreed to everything and taken home my salary, but that’s not me.” Gillespie's comments highlight ongoing concerns about leadership and governance within Pakistani cricket. His critique of Javed and the PCB comes at a challenging time for the sport in the country, with questions surrounding the direction and management of the national team. Gillespie expressed deep disappointment over the current state of affairs in Pakistan cricket. “It’s heartbreaking for me to see what’s going on now, it’s a mess,” he said. He pointed to Javed as the central issue, stating that as long as he remained in his position, the problems would persist.