Don’t be a yes man’: Gillespie offers advice to Pakistan coach Hesson

Former Pakistan Test head coach Jason Gillespie has advised current coach Mike Hesson to trust his instincts and maintain his independence amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the national team.

Gillespie, who stepped down as Pakistan’s red-ball coach in December 2024 after an eight-month tenure, shared the advice ahead of Hesson’s first Test in charge of the side.

“My advice to Mike would be: trust your instincts and don’t be a yes man,” Gillespie said.

“I know him, he’s a great guy and I think he’s an excellent coach. I hope he just doesn’t get caught up in all this mess just because he’s happy to accept a pay cheque,” he added.

Hesson was recently brought into Pakistan’s red-ball setup as the team undergoes significant changes following heavy defeats in the first two Tests of the ongoing England tour.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also made several changes to the team management, including sending seven players home and parting ways with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul.

Gillespie said his own experience with the PCB had been frustrating and claimed his responsibilities were significantly reduced after Aaqib Javed’s appointment.

“When I came on board, they wanted to bring back fast bowling. This is what was sold to me when I took on the role,” he said.