In the midst of the turmoil surrounding the Champions Trophy tournament, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finds itself in a protracted dispute with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). On Thursday, the board faced an additional pressing issue as Jason Gillespie, the head coach of the Pakistan Test team, tendered his resignation.

As reported by ARY News, Gillespie declined to travel to South Africa for the upcoming two-match Test series, scheduled to commence in the final week in Centurion. The former Australian cricketer made this decision following the PCB's dismissal of Tim Nielsen from his position as assistant coach.

Despite Nielsen anticipating a new contract from the PCB, earlier reports indicated that the board was opposed to extending his tenure, prompting Gillespie to reassess his role with the Pakistan team.

The report indicated that Gillespie was taken aback by the PCB's decision, leading him to opt out of the South Africa tour for the Test series. He submitted his resignation shortly thereafter; however, sources have informed the Pakistan news channel that the PCB has not yet accepted it.

Is PCB's Tim Nielsen stance not the only factor?

Gillespie was appointed earlier this year on a two-year contract to serve as the head coach of Pakistan's red-ball team. Although the team experienced a disappointing whitewash at home against Bangladesh, they made a remarkable recovery with a comeback victory against England on home soil. This achievement marked a significant moment for Pakistan cricket, which has faced considerable challenges. However, Gillespie expressed dissatisfaction when the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) did not consult him regarding several important selection decisions for the England series.

This situation arose just two months following the unexpected resignation of former South African international Gary Kirsten as the head coach of the white-ball team.

It is anticipated that former Pakistan fast bowler Aqib Javed will be appointed as the interim head coach for the red-ball team. He previously held a similar position for the white-ball team after Kirsten's exit.

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