KEY POINTS
- Gillespie poised for return to Pakistan cricket after stepping down as national Test coach.
- Historic 11th PSL edition begins on March 26, featuring eight teams with Hyderabad and Sialkot as new additions.
LAHORE, Pakistan: The Hyderabad franchise of the Pakistan Super League is in advanced talks to appoint former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie as its head coach for the league’s upcoming 11th edition, according to media reports citing sources.
While not yet formally announced, the move is widely anticipated and would mark Gillespie’s high-profile return to Pakistani cricket after a brief and abrupt tenure with the national team last year.
Potential coaching homecoming
The 50-year-old Gillespie, revered for his pace bowling prowess and respected for his coaching acumen, was part of Pakistan’s coaching staff in 2024.
Appointed in April as the red-ball head coach alongside white-ball coach Gary Kirsten, his stint was cut short in December ahead of Pakistan’s Test tour of South Africa.
Reports at the time cited a strained relationship with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and challenges in aligning with the existing management structure as reasons for his resignation.
Boost for expanding league
Gillespie’s potential hiring is considered a major strategic acquisition for the new Hyderabad franchise as the PSL prepares for its biggest season yet.
The historic 11th edition, scheduled to commence on March 26, will feature an expanded lineup of eight teams, with Hyderabad and Sialkot joining as the two new franchises.
The Hyderabad team was secured by owner Fawad Sarwar with a winning bid of Rs1.75 billion (approximately $6.25 million) in the recent franchise auction.
If finalized, Gillespie’s appointment would bring a wealth of international T20 coaching experience and a fresh perspective to the nascent Hyderabad setup as they build their squad ahead of the upcoming season.
