LAHORE: Former Australian fast bowler and former Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie has been named the head coach of Hyderabad, the Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) newest franchise, ahead of the historic 11th edition of the tournament, which begins on March 26.
The appointment, widely discussed on social media, was later confirmed by sources, marking Gillespie’s return to Pakistan cricket in a high-profile role. The 50-year-old is no stranger to Pakistan cricket. In April 2024, he was appointed as the head coach of the Test squad, working alongside Gary Kirsten, who managed the white-ball side. However, Gillespie resigned later that year before Pakistan’s two-match Test series in South Africa, amid reports of strained relations with the PCB and difficulties in aligning with the team’s management structure.
His new role with Hyderabad offers him a fresh opportunity to contribute to Pakistan cricket, this time in the dynamic T20 franchise environment. The 11th edition of the PSL is set to be historic, with the league expanding to eight teams for the first time. Hyderabad and Sialkot have joined the roster, adding new flavor and regional representation to the competition.
Hyderabad’s franchise rights were secured by Fawad Sarwar, who won the auction with a bid of Rs 1.75 billion ($6.25 million). The team’s entry is expected to energize fans in Sindh and broaden the PSL’s reach across Pakistan.
The PSL 11 Player Auction will be held on February 11, following an auction workshop chaired by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and PSL CEO Salman Naseer. The session was attended by representatives of all eight franchises, PSL officials, capped players, and members of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup squad.
This will be the first time the PSL adopts a player auction system, replacing the traditional draft, signaling a new era for the league. With Gillespie at the helm, Hyderabad will be aiming to make a strong debut in PSL 11. His experience as a former international cricketer and coach, combined with the franchise’s ambitious entry, sets the stage for an exciting campaign.
The PSL’s expansion, introduction of the auction system, and high-profile coaching appointments underline the league’s growing stature as one of the premier T20 competitions in the world.
