Jason Gillespie Reveals Surprising Details Behind Babar Azam’s Omission from England Tests
Jason Gillespie, former Pakistan red-ball coach, revealed that the decision to drop Babar Azam from the Test squad during the England series was made by the new selection committee, not him. Despite Babar’s recent struggles, including no fifties in Tests since 2022, Gillespie praised his work ethic and elite skills. Babar Azam has since been included in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, starting December 26.
After resigning from the Pakistan National Cricket Team, Jason Gillespie revealed shocking details about Babar Azam’s omission from the England Test series. Gillespie clarified that the decision was made by the new selection committee without consulting him. The series, held in October 2024, saw Pakistani secure a rare home Test series win after three years, despite losing the first Test by an innings and 47 runs.
Babar Azam was dropped after consistently poor performances, having failed to score a Test fifty since 2022. He was replaced by Kamran Ghulam, whose century contributed to Pakistan’s turnaround. However, PCB claimed Babar was rested, leading to media speculation. To this, Gillespie said:
Babar Azam was dropped from the Test squad for the England series. There was no communication with me about dropping him. The decision to drop was made by the new Selection Committee. Babar works so hard, he’s an elite player, he’s very fit, he trains very hard, he’s fantastic and one of the best I worked with.
Gillespie praised Babar as one of the most hardworking players he coached, emphasizing his fitness and dedication. Now included in the squad for the South Africa Test series starting December 26, Babar has a chance to regain form and silence critics.
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