Jason Gillespie makes shocking statement on how ex-cricketers' remarks impact players' confidence

Pakistan Test head coach Jason Gillespie opened up about the impact of comments from former cricketers on the national cricket team. Jason Gillespie highlighted that the positive comments from former Test cricketers would boost the confidence of the current players in the national cricket team.

Gillespie was appointed as head coach of the Pakistan Test team ahead of the two-match series against Bangladesh at home. However, Pakistan suffered a humiliating 2-0 series loss in his first assignment. The loss on home soil has garnered widespread criticism from former Pakistan cricketers and fans.

It Makes A Significant Impact - Jason Gillespie

In a recent interview with PCB Digital, Jason Gillespie shared the influence of former Test cricketers' positive comments on the confidence of current players. Gillespie noted that compliments from the former players boost the morale of the team.

"I fully understand that former players are often asked for their opinions in the media because people want to hear from the legends of Pakistan cricket - these great, wonderful cricketers who have represented Pakistan with pride, just like the current players," Gillespie said.

"In my short time here, I’ve noticed that when a former player offers compliments or positive comments about current players, it makes a significant impact. All of these current and former players are part of an exclusive club. Not many people have represented Pakistan in Test or one-day cricket, especially in Test cricket," he added.

Pakistan has named a 15-member squad for their first Test match against England in Multan, which is set to commence on October 7. Following this, the second Test will also be held in Multan from October 15, and the third and final match of the series will take place in Rawalpindi starting October 24.

They Belong To This Unique Group Of Pakistan - Jason Gillespie

Jason Gillespie said that former players in the media hold a significant responsibility, as their words can shape current players. The Pakistan coach highlighted that players genuinely appreciate the positive sentiments of legends they grew up watching.

"They belong to this unique group of Pakistan representatives who have worn the green cap through hard work. So, when a current player hears positive remarks in the media, they stand a little taller. They think, “My hero just said I was a good player and is looking forward to watching me bat or bowl.”

"The smiles on their faces say it all. They love it; these are the players they grew up watching."

"I’ve always believed, and I’ve seen this worldwide, that former players in the media have a responsibility. They have a choice regarding how they want current players to perceive them. The current players idolise them and when they express positive sentiments, I know the current players truly appreciate it."

Gillespie had a successful career as an Australian cricketer. The former pacer took 259 wickets in 71 Test matches and also contributed with the bat, amassing 1,218 runs, including a highest score of 201 not out against Bangladesh in 2006. Notably, he took 10 wickets in four Tests against Pakistan.

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