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Don't Like 'Bazball': Pakistan Coach Discredits England's Formula Before Home Test Series

Pakistan head coach has criticised Bazball ahead of England Test series (@TripleMPerth/X.com)Pakistan head coach has criticised Bazball ahead of England Test series (@TripleMPerth/X.com)

Jason Gillespie, the head coach of Pakistan's red-ball cricket team, has shared his thoughts on England's aggressive playing style as both teams prepare for an exciting three-match Test series starting on October 7.

Pakistan cricket, currently on ventilator owing to back-to-back series and tournament losses, will face one of the toughest challenges against England next month. 

England will be touring Pakistan at a time when the latter is coming off a gut-wrenching series loss against Bangladesh. Moreover, England's aggressive style of play will pose a different challenge for the already struggling Shan Masood and co. 

 Jason Gillespie unwary of Bazball challenge 

However, regardless of the steep challenge, former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie, who took charge of Pakistan's red ball team earlier this year, is aiming for a strong comeback after a disappointing series loss to Bangladesh at home. 

Gillespie acknowledged the evolution of England's style of play under the leadership of coach Brendon McCullum, often referred to as "Bazball." However, Gillespie expressed his dislike for the term, preferring to focus on his own strategy for facing England's dynamic approach.

"It’s very clear how England approaches their cricket. I don’t particularly like the term “Bazball,” but they do play aggressive cricket. We’ve seen them evolve their game and that’s how they want to play," Gillespie said on a podcast.

He further outlined Pakistan's strategy for the series, highlighting a disciplined and patient approach.

"We will play our way, striving to be a consistent and disciplined team that hangs in there and strikes at the right moment to drive the game forward and exploit gaps. That’s our strategy," he added.

Gillespie also touched on the external criticism facing the Pakistan team, with many experts doubting their chances in the upcoming series. He acknowledged the negative commentary but saw it as an additional source of motivation for his players. He concluded:

"A lot of people are writing us off, and that’s okay - that’s fine. It will only motivate our boys a little bit more. We’ll go out and do our jobs as best we can, and hopefully, the results will take care of themselves."

Jason Gillespie demands ruthlessness from Pakistan

Head coach Jason Gillespie conveyed a strong message to the Pakistan cricket team ahead of the England series. He urged his players to be ruthless and make the most out of the early advantage. 

Jason added that one bad hour of play cost them big time against Bangladesh and hence Pakistan must ensure to minimise these poor periods of play. Notably, the series will be particularly significant for Pakistan, who suffered a 3-0 whitewash when England last toured the country in December 2022.