New Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie shares strong message

Jason Gillespie, the Pakistan Test team coach, has stressed the importance of the team’s fitness ahead of their two-match series against Bangladesh in August. Defensive play and inconsistency were the two aspects of the Pakistan team that were heavily criticised after their disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup. Apart from this, the fitness level of the players also proved to be another point of negative reaction.

Some fan groups including former Pakistani cricketers like Wasim Akram, Kamran Akmal and many other stars have criticised the fitness of the players.

“In international cricket, one has to stay fit, there is no doubt about it. In international cricket, everyone should know the importance of fitness. It is the main component of a sportsman,” Gillespie was quoted as saying by Geo News.

Gillespie also said he had had conversations with Pakistan captain Shan Masood and would talk to the players about the type of cricket they wanted to play.

“I have spoken to Shan Masood once or twice, I hope we play positive cricket. I will discuss with the players what kind of cricket they want to play, the team will be selected considering the opposition and the conditions,” he said.

“I’m focusing on red-ball cricket. I’m also going to be going to Australia to watch the players. I’ve spoken to Jeff Lawson and Shaun Tait from the Pakistan cricket team,” Gillespie added.