‘My focus and energy are on Pakistan’ - Coach Jason Gillespie assures readiness for Bangladesh series

Former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie is ready to take charge of the Pakistan men's red-ball team. In the last series, the Shan Masood-led side had a terrible time Down Under, in which Australia picked up a comfortable 3-0 win. Since then, a lot has changed in Pakistan cricket. Mohammad Hafeez has made his way out, while Babar Azam expressed to take over the leadership baton in Test cricket as well.

Pakistan are facing major turbulence at the moment. After their early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024, the players have faced immense criticism, while Hafeez pointed out that many of the players prefer sleeping during Test matches, which is something that’s not expected from an international side. At this crucial time, a series loss against Bangladesh can hurt Pakistan further. New coach Gillespie understands that and is ready to work for the betterment of their cricket.

The Australian assured that he is focused and is ready to help the team make an impact in the two-match series against the Bangla Tigers. He added that with the right strategy and preparation, Pakistan can get the job done in the series, which is slated to begin on August 21.

“Coming up against Bangladesh, my focus will be how Pakistan can play well against Bangladesh. I'm not going to be dwelling on my last Test match,” Gillespie was quoted as saying by The Daily Star when asked about the unbeaten double hundred he made against Bangladesh in Chattogram back in 2006. 
 
“Certainly, nice memories, no doubt about that, but my focus and energy are on Pakistan, on how we can have an impact against Bangladesh who are a very good cricket team. So, we need to make sure we play well, we prepare well, we do our research on the opposition and identify strategies for us to have an impact against them. It will be my first Test match in charge, and I'm really looking forward to that,” he added.

Also Read: 'Shameful, embarrassing' - Fans react after Pakistan batters struggle against net bowlers

Meanwhile, Pakistan are yet to confirm if Masood will continue as captain of the Test side or will he be replaced just after a series.