Former Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie has pushed back against Sunil Gavaskar’s remarks on Pakistan’s performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Amid criticism following Pakistan’s early exit, Gillespie defended the team, calling Gavaskar’s claim that even India’s second-string squad could outplay Pakistan “absolute nonsense.”
Gavaskar’s Comments and Gillespie’s Response
Pakistan endured a tough campaign in the Champions Trophy, losing to New Zealand and India before a washed-out match against Bangladesh ended their hopes. Following these setbacks, Gavaskar criticized Pakistan’s ODI side, stating that an Indian B or C team could easily defeat them.
Gillespie, however, strongly refuted this, emphasizing Pakistan’s talent and potential.
“I don’t buy this rhetoric,” he said. “Sunil Gavaskar’s comments about India’s B or C team beating Pakistan’s top side are absolute nonsense. If Pakistan selects the right players and gives them time to develop, they can defeat any team, including India.”
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The Need for Stability and Support
Gillespie stressed that Pakistan cricket lacks patience in team selection and management. He highlighted that frequent changes and a lack of long-term vision hurt player confidence and team performance.
“The key is backing players and allowing them time to grow. There’s far too much impatience in Pakistan cricket,” he noted.
He also pointed out that for Pakistan to improve, the PCB must ensure consistency in selection and coaching staff. “If the board wants better results, it must hire the right people and give them time to implement meaningful changes. Otherwise, the results will remain the same.”
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Struggles
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign was a major disappointment. The team started with a loss against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. A more painful defeat followed against arch-rivals India on February 23 in Dubai. Their final group-stage match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27 was washed out due to rain, sealing their fate as the first team eliminated—despite being the hosts.
Pakistan’s Path Forward
Gillespie’s comments reflect a larger issue in Pakistan cricket—lack of stability and long-term planning. With proper support, Pakistan’s raw talent can translate into consistent performances. Moving forward, the PCB must focus on strong leadership, consistent selection, and patience to rebuild a competitive team.
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