Jason Gillespie expresses frustration over reduced role as Pakistan head coach

Pakistan red ball head coach Jason Gillespie has admitted to feeling "frustrated from time to time" over the reduced scope of his job.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Gillespie, who was removed from the selection panel alongside captain Shan Masood, expressed that his current role "wasn't what he signed up for" but that he was committed to adapting to the situation.

"I think there's always frustrations from time to time. For me, when I came on board with Pakistan cricket, I was told there was a long-term plan, and we need to make sure our communication's spot on. I made that a real focus and so you can get frustrated if those things aren't done how you would like," Gillespie said.

The former Australian legendary bowler had initially envisioned a more significant role in shaping the team's direction. However, the recent changes in the selection panel have limited his influence.

"It wasn't what I signed up for, I'll be completely honest. But this is one of those situations in which you just need to go with the flow. As I said, I'm in a different environment and things are done differently. One can agree or disagree with how things are done, but ultimately I'm here to help the Pakistan team do well, help the players get better, improve. So I've put all my focus and energy into that," he said.

The decision to remove Jason Gillespie and Masood from the selection process came after Pakistan's heavy defeat in the first Test against England. The reshuffle brought the number of selectors working with the team to over two dozen since 2021.

He noted that he and Masood were not consulted for the second Test squad or the pitch preparation, underscoring the lack of clarity around his role.

"A lot's changed. Since I've been involved, we're already on our third selection panel. These are the things you just got to take it all in your stride and understand that we're in a different environment and go with the flow. I ask a lot of questions and ask for clarity, which as head coach I'm well within my rights to ask," he said.

"But I want to make it really clear that everyone in Pakistan wants what's best and there's a lot of very passionate people here. That's driving me to continue to help the players, and it's been a great experience so far working with them. I really excited about what the future holds and as a coach," he added.