"The players care and are desperate to do well" - Jason Gillespie assures they will do everything to make Pakistan a top team across formats
Pakistan's Test team's head coach Jason Gillespie has stated that the players are wholly committed to see them become the top side across formats. The former Australian speedster's statement came after the strategic connection camp organized by the PCB on Monday.
The camp came in the light of Pakistan's torrid run across formats in recent times. The humiliating 2-0 series loss to Bangladesh on home soil has garnered widespread criticism from former cricketers, with the management and players finding themselves under pressure.
Speaking at the presser, Gillespie assured that everyone is in this journey together and the coaches are keen on helping out. He was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo:
"Because we're new to the job, our job is to listen and learn and look to implement ways where we can be more effective as players, as a team, and as coaches. What was really clear today was the pride the Pakistan players have in playing for Pakistan and how they want to inspire the country. That was really exciting to hear. The players care and are desperate to do well. We're on this journey together and we'll do everything we can to help."
Before the Test series against Bangladesh, the Men in Green also suffered a group-stage exit in T20 World Cup 2024. They witnessed a shocking loss to the USA before India beat them in a low-scoring thriller.
"I've been here the last 12 days or so watching the Champions Cup" - Pakistan's white-ball coach
Pakistan white-ball head coach Gary Kirsten opined that the quality of cricket and the depth of talent in the Champions Cup has left him awestruck. Kirsten was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo:
"I've been here the last 12 days or so watching the Champions Cup and have been really encouraged at the depth of quality of players in this tournament. It's been fantastic to see. I've really enjoyed the tournament. The quality of the competition has been high. Been great to see a lot of young players showcasing what they are capable of."
Players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were also present for the strategic connection camp. They will return to play for Pakistan in the three-match Test series against England, beginning on October 7.