Cricket

Jason Gillespie's tenure as Pakistan's head coach is set to end abruptly, with Aaqib Javed poised to take over across all formats. This latest coaching shakeup underscores the ongoing instability within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).Gillespie, who currently serves as Test coach and interim white-ball coach, is expected to be relieved of all duties. Aaqib, recently appointed convenor of the men's cricket selection committee, is the frontrunner to replace him.The decision, which could be announced as early as Monday, stems from Gillespie's refusal to take on additional white-ball responsibilities without a contract amendment. The PCB, however, maintains that Gillespie's lack of time spent in Pakistan is the primary reason for his departure.Gillespie contends that he has fulfilled his contractual obligations and has even worked without pay on the Shaheens tour of Darwin. The PCB's insistence on his physical presence in Pakistan raises questions about the board's priorities, given the team's upcoming schedule.After Gillespie's departure, the PCB initially considered elevating Azhar Mahmood or reappointing Saqlain Mushtaq. However, Aaqib emerged as the preferred candidate, with the PCB offering him the role until the end of the Champions Trophy.Gillespie's tenure has been marked by both highs and lows. Pakistan suffered a humiliating 2-0 home defeat to Bangladesh but rebounded with a 2-1 triumph over England. Gillespie also oversaw Pakistan's first series victory in Australia in 22 years.Aaqib's appointment marks a rapid rise for the former coach and director of cricket operations at Lahore Qalandars. He is credited with implementing spin-friendly wickets against England, which proved decisive in Pakistan's series win.Pakistan faces a packed cricket schedule in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, including white-ball matches against Zimbabwe and South Africa, as well as Test matches against West Indies. Aaqib will be tasked with guiding the team through this challenging period.

Pakistan cricket is navigating a period of upheaval, marked by coaching departures, leadership changes, and player dynamics. Amidst this turmoil, former captain Babar Azam has emerged as a beacon of hope, receiving a warm welcome upon his arrival in Australia for the upcoming white-ball series.Despite a recent dip in form, fans eagerly awaited Azam's arrival at the airport, eager to take selfies and offer words of encouragement. The viral video of his reception underscores his enduring popularity.Azam returns to international cricket after being rested for the final two Tests against England. Relieved of the captaincy burden, he can now focus solely on his batting. He will feature in three ODIs and three T20Is against Australia before sitting out the Zimbabwe series to prepare for future challenges.Off the field, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is grappling with turbulence following Gary Kirsten's abrupt resignation as white-ball coach. Kirsten, who signed a two-year deal in April, departed after just six months, citing internal disagreements. The PCB's decision to remove voting powers from coaches in team selection reportedly contributed to the friction.With Kirsten's departure, Test coach Jason Gillespie will guide the team on the Australia tour. Pakistan will begin training in Melbourne on November 1, with the first ODI scheduled for November 4.As the squad seeks stability under new captain Mohammad Rizwan, all eyes will be on Babar Azam to rediscover his form and anchor the team through these crucial matches. His batting prowess and leadership qualities will be vital as Pakistan navigates this challenging period.