Today, cricket legend Jason Gillespie shared his insights with us at Sports Declaration in an exclusive interview, discussing both his playing career and coaching experiences.
1-) What is the most unforgettable moment of your cricket career?
Lots of great memories- hard to pick one however I will say that winning test series v India in 2004 was pretty special.
2-) How do you apply the experiences you gained as a player to your coaching career?
I understand what players go through as professionals. I can listen and understand.
3-) What are your thoughts on being appointed as the head coach of the Pakistan men’s Test cricket team, and what are your goals in this role?
Very excited to be part of Pakistan Cricket. My goal is simply for the players to trust the process of preparation and go out there and enjoy their cricket.
4-) What are the most important experiences you have gained from coaching different teams like South Australia, Yorkshire, and Sussex?
Overall, it is that no two players and no two teams are alike so as a coach you have to be adaptable and learn to listen more than you speak.
5-) How do you remember the match where you scored 201* as a nightwatchman, the highest score by a nightwatchman in international cricket history? Can you share this memory with us?
It certainly was a lot of fun! I’d never scored a century in any form of cricket so it was a completely new experience for me. I simply focussed on playing straight when the ball was on the stumps and looked to score runs from other deliveries.
6-) As the head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, how do you see the future performance of the team?
The short answer is ‘I don’t know’ as the future has not happened yet however by planning and preparing well with good processes in place will give us the best opportunity to succeed.
7-) What other goals do you have in your coaching career?
Winning the World Test Championship with Pakistan. In the future I’d like to have a couple of seasons in franchise cricket.
8 -) What is the most important advice you would give to young players throughout your career?
Work hard and enjoy the game.