FAISALABAD: Pakistan’s Test head coach Jason Gillespie on Wednesday, broke silence over Kamran Ghulam’s absence from the Pakistan squad for the upcoming Test series against England.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday, announced a 15-member squad for the first Test against England, which marked the return of fast bowling all-rounder Aamir Jamal and left-arm spinner Noman Ali.
Meanwhile, Kamran Ghulam, despite being a consistent performer in the domestic circuit, was left out of the squad. He alongside Mohammad Ali and injured Khurram Shahzad was a part of the Pakistan squad for Bangladesh Tests.
“Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Ali, who were part of the squad for the Bangladesh Tests, remain firmly in the selectors’ plans,” said PCB in a statement.
“However, due to the selection policy’s emphasis on consistency and continuity, and the belief that 15 players are sufficient for a Test, they have been advised and encouraged to continue representing their teams in the Champions One-Day Cup and the President’s Cup, starting on 3 October, to ensure they stay match-ready through competitive cricket,” the statement added.
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Ghulam’s exclusion turned heads and fans questioned the selection criteria for the national team.
Consequently, during the Champions One-Day Cup Eliminator 1 between Lions and Stallions, former cricketer Salman Butt asked Jason Gillespie to share his views on Kamran Ghulam’s exclusion during the commentary.
“Tell us about Kamran Ghulam. He’s not in the squad for the first Test even after scoring heaps of runs,” asked Butt.
In response, Gillespie acknowledged Ghulam’s performances in domestic cricket and also for Pakistan Shaheens on their tour to Darwin but emphasized showing faith in the current squad.
“I saw him perform with Pakistan Shaheens in Darwin. His form has been acknowledged, but we’re showing faith and patience in our current squad,” said Gillespie.
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