Former Australia pacer Jason Gillespie, who previously worked as Pakistan’s head coach, is set to make a return to Pakistan ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. The veteran coach is expected to take over as head coach of the Hyderabad franchise for the upcoming season, which begins on March 26.
Jason Gillespie stepped down from his role as head coach of Pakistan’s Test team after a short stint. He was appointed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in April 2024, but his tenure came to an end in December 2024. Gillespie raised concerns over management decisions and frustration with poor communication at the board.
Jason Gillespie Set to Take Charge as Hyderabad Head Coach for PSL 2026
Jason Gillespie is set to take charge as head coach of the Hyderabad franchise. The development quickly drew attention online before official confirmation. According to a Geo Super report published on Tuesday, the former Pakistan red-ball coach will officially assume the role.
Jason Gillespie brings coaching experience from both domestic and international cricket. He has worked in English county cricket and various franchise leagues around the world, earning recognition for his focus on player development and strong tactical planning.
During his stint with Pakistan, Jason Gillespie also briefly served as interim coach of the limited-overs team after the exit of Gary Kirsten. However, he raised concerns about serious communication problems within the setup.
PSL 11 to Feature Eight Teams as Hyderabad, Sialkot Join Tournament
The Pakistan Super League will look different in its 11th edition, as the tournament has expanded to eight teams. Two new franchises, Hyderabad and Sialkot, will make their debut this season.
Hyderabad secured its place after owner Fawad Sarwar won the franchise auction with a bid of Rs1.75 billion ($6,247,500). The Pakistan Cricket Board has scheduled the PSL 11 player auction for February 11, which will take place during the auction workshop.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and PSL CEO Salman Naseer led the session, which was attended by franchise owners, league officials, Pakistan’s T20 World Cup players, and other capped cricketers. Discussions covered team budgets, base prices, squad limits, player retentions, and direct signings ahead of the auction.
Sialkot Stallionz Reveal Identity as PSL 11 Auction Details Announced
The newest team in the Pakistan Super League recently announced its name on Instagram, sharing a launch video that highlighted Sialkot’s strong cricketing history.
The Stallionz name was selected after considering several options, including Falcons, Shaheen, Thunders, and Sixers. The franchise worked with branding experts to create an identity that blends tradition with the league’s modern image.
The Pakistan Super League has also confirmed that the player auction for its 11th season will take place on February 11. All bidding will be conducted in Pakistani rupees.
The base price for the top category has been set at PKR 42 million (around USD 151,000). Other categories have been fixed at PKR 22 million (USD 80,000), PKR 11 million (USD 40,000), and PKR 6 million (USD 21,500).
Also read: Pakistan cricketers revolt against Mohsin Naqvi and PCB for backing Bangladesh in T20 World Cup row
