Jason Gillespie has resigned as the head coach of Pakistan's Test team, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Thursday (December 12).

Gillespie's departure comes just days before Pakistan's crucial two-match Test series against South Africa.

This leaves the PCB scrambling for a replacement. Aaqib Javed, currently the interim coach of Pakistan's white-ball teams, has been named the interim red-ball coach. Gillespie was appointed in April 2024 on a two-year contract.

He had been at odds with the PCB over several decisions, including the non-renewal of assistant coach Tim Nielsen's contract. The Australian pacer felt excluded from key discussions, including squad selections and coaching staff appointments.

PCB sources revealed that Gillespie had communicated his frustrations and informed the board that he would not join the team in South Africa, citing irreconcilable differences. "Aaqib Javed will take over as interim red-ball head coach for the South Africa series," the PCB announced.

"His first assignment will be the Boxing Day Test at SuperSport Park in Centurion, followed by the New Year's Test at Newlands, Cape Town." Gillespie's tenure was marked by mixed results. He guided Pakistan to a 2-1 Test series win against England earlier this year.

However, still faced criticism after a 0-2 loss to Bangladesh at home. His stint with Pakistan's white-ball side in Australia saw a 2-1 ODI series win but ended with a T20I series sweep by the hosts. The relationship between Gillespie and the PCB began to sour in October when he was removed from the selection panel without explanation.

The situation worsened when Nielsen's contract was not renewed, despite his availability and strong rapport with the players. Gillespie publicly voiced his dissatisfaction, stating, "I am not a selector; my focus is on match-day strategy and the players. Decisions like these affect the team dynamic."

Aaqib Javed's appointment follows the resignation of Gary Kirsten as white-ball coach in October. Javed now holds an interim role across formats as the PCB looks for long-term solutions. The South Africa series is critical for both teams, with the Proteas eyeing a spot in the World Test Championship final. The first Test begins on December 26, with the second starting on January 3.