Gillespie says Pakistan experience soured his love for coaching

Former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie has ruled out taking up any full-time coaching roles in the near future, citing a frustrating and disheartening experience during his brief tenure with the Pakistan Test team, reported 24News HD TV channel on Sunday.

Gillespie, who took charge as head coach in April 2024, stepped down just eight months later in December after his responsibilities were significantly curtailed.

Speaking candidly on Wisden’s Patreon podcast, Gillespie admitted that the Pakistan assignment has left a lasting impact on his love for coaching. "Right now, I’m not sure I’m interested in coaching full time.

 [Even if Australia come calling] No, I’m not interested," he stated emphatically.

Gillespie revealed that the way his tenure ended had a deep emotional effect on him.

 “The Pakistan experience has soured my love for coaching, I’ll be honest. I’ll get it back, I’m sure I will, but that was really a blow. It really disappointed me how that all ended,” he said.

The former pacer’s departure from the Pakistan Test setup came amid reports of internal restructuring and shifting priorities within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which allegedly led to a diminished role for Gillespie within the team’s strategic framework.

Once considered a rising figure in international coaching circles due to successful stints with domestic teams and a clear cricketing vision, Gillespie’s disillusionment comes as a setback not only for his career but also for teams that may have sought his leadership in the future.

While Gillespie hasn't ruled out a return to coaching entirely, his recent remarks make it clear that any comeback would require time and reflection. For now, the former Australian star appears set to step away from the professional coaching spotlight.