'We extend an open invitation for him' - Jason Gillespie invites gold medalist Arshad Nadeem to Pakistan dressing room

Pakistan's Test coach Jason Gillespie invited Paris Olympics 2024 gold medalist Arshad Nadeem to the Pakistan dressing room. The former Australian pacer feels that the cricketers will get a lot of inspiration upon meeting the first Pakistani athlete to win a gold medal at the Olympics.

Nadeem scripted history by breaking the Olympic record during the final of the men's javelin throw final in the Paris Games. His awe-inspiring throw of 92.97m was crucial in him winning the Olympic gold medal. Pakistani players had wished him good luck ahead of the final and also congratulated him after his phenomenal achievement.

"We would love to invite Arshad Nadeem to the dressing room as well. I saw all the Shaheens cheering him on during the Olympics. Having him visit and share his gold medal with the team would be a fantastic boost, especially with the Olympic spirit still in the air. It was a wonderful moment, and we extend an open invitation for him to visit the dressing room," Gillespie said on the PCB Podcast.

Also Read: 'Jason Gillespie is a bit like Gambhir'- Ricky Ponting on Jason Gillespie's appointment as Pakistan's red-ball coach

Nadeem has become a national hero after his remarkable feat in Paris and he received a grand welcome upon his return to Pakistan as hundreds of fans cheered for him at the top of their lungs to express their euphoria. From the small town of Mian Channu, Nadeem went on to make it big on the global stage in Paris. His story is going to inspire athletes, especially in Pakistan, for many years.

Arshad Nadeem's success motivates us to do something good for Pakistan: Shan Masood

Pakistan's Test captain Shan Masood was asked whether Nadeem's heroic effort in Paris would put the cricketers under added pressure instead of serving as a source of motivation. The southpaw asserted that the players should be grateful to have the opportunity to represent the country. He said that the players should take inspiration from Nadeem's exploits and look to bring pride to the nation.

Also Read: 'We're playing our next Test after ten months' - Shan Masood wants Pakistan to play more Tests

"Does it put pressure on the team? I don't see it as pressure but as a privilege. Representing Pakistan is a huge honor, and every day we play is a privilege. We should feel extremely proud and grateful to represent our country. Arshad Nadeem's success motivates us to seize our opportunity to do something good for Pakistan," Masood said on the PCB Podcast.

Pakistan are set to play a two-match Test series at home against Bangladesh, starting next week in Rawalpindi.