Jason Gillespie Raises Concerns Over Shaheen, Naseem's Workload Ahead Of BAN Tests
Gillespie Worries Over Shaheen and Naseem's Workload [x.com]
Former Australian Test bowler Jason Gillespie, now Pakistan's Test coach, has expressed significant concerns regarding the workload on the team's fast bowlers, particularly Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah.
In a recent luncheon with journalists in Karachi, Gillespie emphasised the heavy demands placed on these multi-format cricketers participating in franchise cricket.
Gillespie concerned over Shaheen's workload
Jason Gillespie pointed out the staggering workload comparison during the conversation,
"Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah are multi-format cricketers and also participate in franchise cricket. They cannot play every match. We will try to give them rest in relatively less important matches. Over the past year, Shaheen has bowled three times more than Mitchell Starc. How can he manage such a workload? We need to take care of him."
Pakistan's preparation for Bangladesh Tests
Preparing for Pakistan's upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, Gillespie announced plans to commence a training camp from August 6, with the squad announcement expected by month-end.
He confirmed Shan Masood's leadership in the Test team, noting his current participation in county cricket in England and ongoing communication over the phone.
Additionally, Gillespie outlined his schedule, including overseeing matches involving Pakistan Shaheens against Bangladesh A and returning to Pakistan by August 4.
Looking ahead to the ICC Test Championship, he acknowledged the team's challenging path to the final and emphasized the need for consistent high performance, particularly with nine Test matches scheduled this season, including a demanding tour of South Africa.
During the training camp, Gillespie intends to closely monitor domestic matches to evaluate potential talents and assess player performances ahead of the Bangladesh series. His primary focus remains on managing the workload of key pacers while aiming to instill new vigor and consistency in the Pakistan national team under his stewardship.