On Tuesday, Jason Gillespie, head coach of the Pakistan Test team, was seen picking up empty water bottles left by players and disposing of them in the dustbin after the training session. This incident occurred just days before the third and final Test match against England, set to start on Thursday in Rawalpindi.
A video circulating on social media captured the former Australian cricketer collecting empty water bottles around the practice nets at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. While Gillespie’s act received praise, the Pakistan players faced criticism for their “poor mentality.”
Pakistan’s recent struggles
Pakistan’s Test team, under captain Shan Masood, has struggled in recent matches, suffering an inning defeat against England earlier this month. This loss followed their historic 2-0 series defeat against Bangladesh at home in August. Despite the challenges, Pakistan managed to bounce back with a historic win under Masood, breaking an 11-match winless streak at home. Noman Ali’s impressive performance, with eight wickets, led the team to a 152-run victory against England in the second Test, levelling the three-match series at 1-1.
Preparations for the final deciding test
The final Test will take place in Rawalpindi, which will be the deciding one, where Pakistan’s selectors, Aaqib Javed, Aleem Dar, Asad Shafiq, and Azhar Ali, all were marked overseeing the pitch preparation. The selectors are determined to create a turning track for the upcoming match, instructing ground staff to use various methods to ensure a dry surface.
Home advantage in sight for Pakistan
A source revealed that the ground staff is utilizing large fans, heaters, and black cloth to remove moisture and promote crack formation in the pitch. Aaqib and Dar, experienced in handling home pitches, are committed to maximizing Pakistan’s home advantage. Pakistan aims to secure their first Test series win at home since January 2021, when they triumphed over South Africa.
