Gillespie calls for positivity as Pakistan seek to avoid defeat in second Test

The Pakistan cricket team is on the brink of a historic Test series defeat against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, as the visitors need just 145 more runs to secure their first-ever Test series victory over Pakistan.

On Day 4 of the second Test, Hasan Mahmud’s stellar five-wicket haul, combined with Nahid Hasan’s dynamic bowling, dismantled Pakistan's batting lineup, dismissing them for 172 runs in their second innings. 

By the end of the day, the hosts reached 42 without loss, needing 143 more runs to chase down a target of 185, before rain and bad light interrupted play.

Speaking at the post-day press conference, Pakistan’s red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie shared his thoughts on the team’s performance under challenging conditions.

Read also: Bangladesh eyes 185 runs target to complete series sweep over Pakistan

“We are lacking in a few areas but hopefully, we will address those issues soon. I think there's a lot of quality in that dressing room of Pakistan, and the boys are working really well. I know they can develop into match-winners for Pakistan,” Gillespie said, highlighting both the positives and potential within the squad.

Reflecting on the Test, the former Australian cricketer pointed out that the match demonstrated the players' ability to compete at this level. “This Test match is evidence that our players can perform in Test cricket. I liked the conditions for this Test match, and all of them will have my back going forward. We have a game to win tomorrow, and we will try to give it our best shot,” he added.

Gillespie also stressed the importance of discipline and a positive mindset in their bowling approach. “We know that we can have an impact with the ball if we bowl in the right areas. If we walk out there and expect to lose, then we will definitely lose. We need to go out there with a positive attitude,” he emphasised.

On the batting front, Gillespie addressed the ongoing challenges with shot selection, saying, “Our shot selection is something that we continue to talk about. We just need to make sure that our batters choose the right balls to attack.”