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Jason Gillespie
Jason Gillespie
Jason Gillespie
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Jason Neil Gillespie (born 19 April 1975) is an Australian cricket coach and former international cricketer who played all three formats of the game. A right-arm fast bowler, he was also a competent lower-order batsman whose unbeaten 201 in his last Test match is the highest score by a night-watchman in international cricket.

Key Information

Gillespie made his One Day International debut against Sri Lanka at Colombo in the Singer World Series in August 1996, and his Test debut against the West Indies at Sydney in November 1996. He also played for South Australia, Yorkshire and Glamorgan at first-class level, and was an AIS Australian Cricket Academy scholarship holder in 1995.[1] Gillespie was the first acknowledged Indigenous male cricketer to represent Australia in Test cricket.[2]

Gillespie announced his retirement from first-class cricket in Australia in February 2008. He then played in the unauthorised Indian Cricket League for the Ahmedabad Rockets.[3][4] At the end of the 2008 English domestic season he retired from all first-class cricket.[5]

Personal life

[edit]

Jason Gillespie is a descendant on his father's side of the Kamilaroi people of Indigenous Australians, and is the first acknowledged Aboriginal male to become a Test cricketer (the first Indigenous Test cricketer was Faith Thomas in 1958).[3][6] His mother has Greek heritage and Jason is the eldest of the three children.[7] He attended Cabra Dominican College in Adelaide, South Australia. Gillespie married Anna (née McEvoy) in 2003. The couple have four children.[8][9] Gillespie has another daughter from a previous relationship.[10]

Gillespie is a vegan and has criticised dairy farming and the use of leather balls. While coaching Yorkshire, Gillespie said of the club being sponsored by a dairy: "Yes, they are a sponsor but it doesn't mean I agree with what they do. It's out of my control, just like the fact that cricket balls are made of leather".[11][12]

International career

[edit]

Bowling

[edit]

Gillespie took 259 wickets in 71 Tests (at an average of 26.13) making him currently Australia's 11th-highest wicket-taker, and giving him the 14th best bowling average for Australian bowlers who have taken more than a hundred wickets.[13]

Gillespie seldom dominated a Test series (the most wickets he took in a series is 20), but he was a reliable support bowler over several years for his more famous teammates Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne. For his performances in 2004, he was named both in the World Test XI and ODI XI by the ICC.[14]

Batting

[edit]

Glenn McGrath (61) and Gillespie (54*) shared a last-wicket stand of 114 against New Zealand in 2004 at the Gabba[15] to the hilarity and acclaim of their teammates. It was the first time that either of them had made a 50 in either Test or ODI versions of the game.[16]

In the second Test against Bangladesh at Chittagong on 19 April 2006, Gillespie (201 not out) set the world record (on his 31st birthday) for the highest individual score by a nightwatchman. This was his maiden first-class century. He also shared a fourth-wicket partnership of 320 runs with Michael Hussey. Gillespie was awarded man-of-the-match honours for his double century in the first innings and he was also named man of the series for his efforts that included eight wickets, at an average of 11.3. Due to injury, it was his final match in international cricket.[17] As of 2025, Gillespie is the only nightwatchman to score a double century in a Test match.[18][19][20]

Injuries

[edit]
Jason Gillespie preparing to bowl for South Australia against Western Australia in January 2007

He played only 52 from a possible 92 Tests following his debut to his axing during the 2005 Ashes series.[21][22] Despite these problems, he was both accurate and economical.

In Australia's 1999 tour of Sri Lanka, he was involved in a sickening outfield collision when both he and Steve Waugh were running to take a catch. Waugh was running from the infield towards the outfield, while Gillespie was running in. Waugh dived for the ball resulting in his nose and Gillespie's right leg being broken. The catch was not taken.[23][24][25] Gillespie's career was cut short by a shoulder injury while fielding for South Australia, leading to his retirement.[17]

Coaching career

[edit]

Gillespie became a coach in Zimbabwe in August 2010. He worked primarily with the Mid West Rhinos, but also on "grassroots" activities to improve the performance of young players in Zimbabwe.[26]

Gillespie was drafted in as the bowling coach of Indian Premier League team Kings XI Punjab after their opening match against Pune Warriors in April 2011.[27]

In November 2011, he was named first-team coach of Yorkshire after a shake up in the club's coaching system.[28] In his first season with Yorkshire, they were promoted from Division Two of the County Championship; in the second they were runners-up in the first division; and they won the title in 2014 and 2015, when he was one of the candidates to coach England.[29] He returned to Australia after Yorkshire narrowly missed out on a third successive title in 2016.[30]

In April 2015, Gillespie was named as the coach of the Adelaide Strikers team in the Big Bash League.

In July 2017, Gillespie was appointed as the interim head coach for the Papua New Guinea national team replacing former New Zealand Test player, Dipak Patel.[31]

In 2018, Gillespie took up the position of head coach of Sussex.[32]

In August 2020, Gillespie was appointed the new coach of South Australia.[33]

In 2021, Gillespie was named an Australia Post Legend of Cricket.[34]

Pakistan (2024)

[edit]

In April 2024, the Pakistan Cricket Board announced Gillespie as the head coach of the Pakistan men's team in the test cricket for a two-year period.[35] In October 2024, Gillespie was appointed coach of the white ball team on an interim basis following the departure of South Africa's Gary Kirsten.[36] He subsequently led a white-ball tour to Australia in Kirsten's absence, securing victory in the one-day series but losing the T20 series. Aqib Javed replaced him for the following tour to Zimbabwe. On 12 December 2024, he resigned as head coach of Pakistan's Test side.[37][38]

Career best performances

[edit]
Bowling
Figures Fixture V
Test 7/37 England v Australia Headingley, Leeds 1997[39]
ODI 5/22 Australia v Pakistan Gymkhana Club Ground, Nairobi 2002[40]
T20I 1/49 England v Australia Rose Bowl, Southampton 2005[41]
FC 8/50 New South Wales v South Australia SCG, Sydney 2001[42]
LA 5/13 Glamorgan v Warwickshire Sophia Gardens, Cardiff 2008[43]
T20 2/19 Yorkshire v Derbyshire Headingley, Leeds 2007[44]

Recognition

[edit]
Statue of Gillespie at Adelaide Oval.

A statue of Gillespie, by sculptor Ken Martin was unveiled at the Adelaide Oval in 2010.[45]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jason Gillespie

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jason Neil Gillespie (born 19 April 1975) is an former international cricketer and coach, renowned as a right-arm fast bowler who represented in all formats of the game and holds the distinction of being the first acknowledged male Aboriginal Test cricketer. Of Kamilaroi Indigenous descent through his father—the great-grandson of a Kamilaroi —Gillespie was born in , and raised in , where he developed his towering 1.95-metre frame into a potent weapon for swing and . Gillespie's international career began with his (ODI) debut against on 30 August 1996, followed by his Test debut against the at the on 29 November 1996, where he claimed 3 wickets in the match. Over 71 Tests from 1996 to 2006, he captured 259 wickets at an average of 26.13, including eight five-wicket hauls and a best-innings figure of 7/37 against in 2004, establishing himself as Australia's sixth-highest Test wicket-taker. In ODIs, he played 97 matches, taking 142 wickets at 25.26, contributing to Australia's successes in the late and early . His career was marred by persistent injuries, yet he formed a formidable partnership with , helping Australia maintain its dominance in . One of Gillespie's most remarkable achievements came in his batting, where he scored 201 not out against in 2006—the highest score by a in history and the only double century by one in the role—earning him the Man of the Match award and recognition as Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 2002. Despite these highlights, recurring injuries led to his gradual phasing out, with his final against in 2006. He retired from Australian in February 2008 after a prolific domestic career with , where he amassed over 400 wickets. Transitioning to coaching, Gillespie began with the Mid West Rhinos in in 2010, emphasizing player development in emerging cricket nations. He achieved significant success as head coach of from 2011 to 2016, guiding them to titles in 2014 and 2015—the club's first in 11 years. Subsequent roles included head coach of (2017), (2018), and South Australia's Redbacks and the in the (2020–2024), from which he resigned in March 2024. Appointed Pakistan's head coach in April 2024, he stepped down in December 2024 after eight months, citing frustrations with administrative interference, and briefly served as interim white-ball coach before resigning fully in early 2025; as of November 2025, he has no full-time coaching commitments and has publicly criticized the PCB over administrative issues and pending payments.

Early life and background

Family and heritage

Jason Gillespie was born on 19 April 1975 in , , , . His family relocated to , , during the 1980s when his father secured employment at the , where Gillespie spent much of his formative years. As the eldest of three children, Gillespie has a mixed heritage that includes Indigenous Australian ancestry from the Kamilaroi people through his father's side, alongside Greek roots from his mother's lineage. He is the great-grandson of a Kamilaroi warrior and has been recognized as the first acknowledged Aboriginal male to represent in . Gillespie has spoken of his awareness of this Indigenous heritage from childhood, noting that it was common knowledge within his family and , shaping his identity as part of a broader cultural lineage. Gillespie married Anna McEvoy in 2003, and the couple has four children together.

Education and junior

Jason Gillespie attended Cabra Dominican College in , , where he balanced his academic studies with his growing interest in . During his time at the college, he participated in school , though he found the program's commitment to the sport limited, prompting him to prioritize club-level play. His early education also included time at Flagstaff Hill , where he first discovered his passion for . Gillespie's involvement in junior cricket began through local clubs and school teams in , where he honed his skills as a right-arm fast bowler. He joined the Cricket Club at a young age, progressing through district competitions and representative primary school teams under the South Australian Primary Schools Sports Association (SAPSASA). Despite occasional injuries that forced him to experiment with batting, his focus remained on developing his pace and accuracy as a bowler, drawing inspiration from watching professional matches. This dedication led to recognition in South Australian underage teams, including selection for the state's Under-19 squad in the early 1990s, where he competed in national youth championships. His performances at this level earned him a spot in the Australia Under-19 team for the 1993/94 season, marking a significant step in his development.

Domestic career

South Australia

Jason Gillespie made his first-class debut for in the on 9 March 1995 against at , where he claimed three wickets in the match. Later that season, he featured in the final against at , taking 3 for 112 and 3 for 39 while contributing 18 and 39 with the bat in a losing cause. In the 1995–96 Sheffield Shield season, Gillespie's breakthrough year, he topped the wicket-taking charts with 46 dismissals at an average of 21.78, forming a potent pace partnership with fellow South Australian Greg Blewett and helping the Redbacks secure their first title since 1983–84 by defeating in the final. His consistent performances in domestic , including strong showings in one-day competitions like the Mercantile Mutual Cup, earned him a place in the Australian Cricket Academy in 1995 and subsequent selection for Australia A tours, cementing his reputation as a promising fast bowler capable of generating pace and swing. Gillespie remained a cornerstone of South Australia's attack through the 2001–02 season, regularly troubling opposition batsmen with his accuracy and ability to exploit conditions at , where he claimed numerous five-wicket hauls. After a period overseas, he returned to the Redbacks in the 2006–07 season, providing and experience to the pace unit in limited-overs and first-class fixtures before retiring from Australian domestic cricket in February 2008 following a final appearance against .

English county cricket

Jason Gillespie joined Yorkshire in 1999, signing a contract that extended through 2007 and establishing him as a cornerstone of the club's bowling attack in the , Trophy, and competitions. His arrival coincided with a period of resurgence for the team, where his pace and accuracy complemented the domestic seamers, helping to build a formidable unit suited to English pitches. In his inaugural season, Gillespie played a pivotal role for , taking consistent wickets and providing leadership in the fast-bowling department during a campaign that saw the side finish 4th in the , laying the foundation for their success in subsequent years. The following year, 2001, marked a high point as secured the crown—their first since 1995—with Gillespie emerging as the leading wicket-taker for the team that season, his endurance and variations proving instrumental in key victories. Injuries limited his availability across his Yorkshire tenure, yet he delivered impactful performances when fit, including a maiden first-class century of 123 not out against in 2007, which highlighted his utility as a lower-order contributor. His overall contributions helped stabilize Yorkshire's in both red-ball and white-ball formats, fostering a competitive edge that supported multiple top-table finishes. Seeking a final challenge before , Gillespie signed a one-year overseas player contract with in 2008. He featured in 13 matches and an equal number of one-day fixtures, capturing 41 wickets across formats at an economy indicative of his control in seaming conditions. This stint, his last in , underscored his enduring professionalism and aided 's mid-table consolidation in Division Two. Throughout his English county career, spanning 1999 to 2008, Gillespie amassed over 350 wickets in first-class and List A matches combined, with a under 28, demonstrating his successful adaptation from Australian domestic conditions to the demands of overseas professional . His efforts not only elevated individual counties but also exemplified the value of international experience in bolstering team promotions and championship aspirations.

International career

Test cricket

Jason Gillespie made his Test debut for Australia against the West Indies at the on 29 November 1996, where he claimed 3 wickets in the match. Over the course of his international career, he played 71 matches between 1996 and 2006, establishing himself as a key fast bowler in 's dominant era. Gillespie took 259 wickets at an average of 26.13, with best figures of 7/37 and eight five-wicket hauls, ranking him as Australia's fifth-highest Test wicket-taker at the time of his retirement. His bowling was characterized by accuracy, seam movement, and the ability to maintain long spells, often supporting spearhead in partnerships that dismantled opposition batting line-ups. One of Gillespie's standout performances came during the 1997 series at , where he recorded career-best figures of 7/37 to bowl out for 172, securing an innings victory for and contributing to a 3-2 series win. He played a pivotal role in 's successful defenses of the in 1997 and 2001, taking 19 wickets across five Tests in the latter series at an average of 34.31. In the 1999-2000 home series against , Gillespie claimed 20 wickets, helping to a 3-0 against a formidable batting side. His contributions extended to subcontinental conditions, where he adapted his bounce and pace effectively, notably taking 20 wickets in the 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in despite challenging pitches. Despite his bowling prowess, Gillespie was also a capable lower-order batsman, scoring 1,218 runs at an average of 18.73, including three half-centuries. His most memorable batting effort came in his final Test against at in April 2006, where, promoted as , he remained unbeaten on 201 from 211 balls—the highest score ever by a in and his only century. This innings, featuring 20 fours and 7 sixes, rescued from 5/93 to a total of 556 and underscored his resilience with the bat. Gillespie's career was marred by persistent injuries, including stress fractures in his foot and back, which limited him to just 52 of the 92 possible Tests following his debut. These setbacks, including a significant absence during the 2005 Ashes, tested his durability but did not diminish his impact when fit. He retired from after the 2006 Bangladesh series, having been a vital cog in Australia's 16 consecutive victories from 1999 to 2001.

One Day Internationals

Jason Gillespie made his (ODI) debut on 30 August 1996 against at the in , where he bowled 10 overs and took 1 wicket for 48 runs. Over the course of his ODI career, spanning from 1996 to 2005, he played 97 matches for , capturing 142 wickets at a bowling average of 25.43 and an economy rate of 4.21. His consistent performances as a right-arm fast bowler provided crucial support to Australia's dominant pace attack, often delivering tight lines in the powerplay and death overs to restrict scoring and break partnerships. Gillespie's standout ODI bowling performance came on 10 January 1999 against at the , where he claimed his career-best figures of 5 wickets for 22 runs in 9.2 overs, helping secure a 106-run victory. This spell highlighted his ability to exploit seam movement and bounce on Australian pitches, dismissing key batsmen like and to dismantle the innings for just 112. In the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup held in , Gillespie played a pivotal role in 's unbeaten group stage campaign, taking 8 wickets across 6 matches at an average of 12.25. Notable contributions included his 3 wickets for 13 runs in 10 overs against at , earning him in a 208-run thrashing that boosted 's net run rate. However, a injury forced him out of the tournament before the Super Sixes stage, sidelining him for the semi-final and final as went on to win the title. His early tournament efforts, combining pace with accuracy, were instrumental in setting a strong foundation for the team's success.

Batting and fielding contributions

Nightwatchman role

In , the nightwatchman role involves a lower-order batsman, typically a bowler, being promoted to shield the top order from the new ball at the close of play, aiming to minimize overnight losses and set up a stronger position the next day. Jason Gillespie was frequently deployed in this capacity by due to his reliable defensive technique, which allowed him to negotiate challenging conditions and build innings patiently without taking undue risks. Across his Test career, Gillespie accumulated 1,218 runs in 93 innings at an average of 18.74, reflecting his utility as a stabilizing lower-order presence rather than a prolific scorer. Gillespie's all-round utility extended to fielding, where he took 27 catches in Tests, many positioned in the slips to capitalize on edges induced by the pace attack. This combination of batting resilience and sharp fielding made him a valuable asset beyond his primary bowling role.

Notable innings

One of Jason Gillespie's most remarkable batting performances came in his final match, the second against in in April 2006. Sent in as at No. 11 after lost their last recognized batter on the first evening, Gillespie remained unbeaten on 201 from 425 balls over nearly 10 hours, including 26 fours and two sixes, as declared at 581 for 4 declared. This not only set the highest score by a and a No. 11 batter in history but also propelled to an by 80 runs, earning Gillespie the man-of-the-match and man-of-the-series awards for his all-round contributions across the 2-0 series . Earlier in his career, Gillespie delivered key lower-order rescues that stabilized Australia's innings in challenging conditions. In the 2004 Test series in , at , Gillespie batted as and remained unbeaten on 20 to escort to his century in the second , helping Australia avoid defeat in a drawn match amid rain interruptions and a strong Indian bowling attack. In One Day Internationals, Gillespie's batting was characterized by lowlights of a modest career average below 13 from 97 matches, often dismissed cheaply at No. 10 or 11, but he had occasional highs providing quick lower-order runs in chases, including brief contributions during Australia's 2003 World Cup campaign where he supported the middle order in tight pursuits before a sidelined him.

Injuries and retirement

Major injuries

Jason Gillespie's career was significantly hampered by recurring stress fractures, particularly in his back, which first manifested in August 1997 during the fifth Test against at , forcing him to miss nearly an entire year of . These issues persisted, with back strains and spasms recurring throughout 1998 and 1999, leading to further absences from international matches and requiring extended rehabilitation to manage the chronic condition. By 2001, another back-related setback sidelined him from the against , highlighting the ongoing vulnerability that resulted in multiple interruptions and subsequent recalls to the Australian Test side. Lower leg injuries added to Gillespie's woes, most notably a severe fracture of his right leg in September 1999 during a fielding collision with captain in , which required surgical intervention and kept him out for most of the 1999-2000 season, including a fractured wrist from the same incident. Shin and ankle problems emerged prominently in 2003-2004; during the 2003 , he suffered a grade one strain of the tendon around his right ankle and Achilles, which failed to heal despite treatment, forcing his withdrawal after playing only four matches and necessitating a return home for recovery. Later that year, in October 2003, a side strain affecting his lower torso and leg muscles further limited his participation in the home series against , involving additional rehabilitation to restore full mobility. The cumulative toll of these injuries—encompassing multiple stress fractures, surgical recoveries, and prolonged rehabilitation—gradually eroded Gillespie's pace and overall stamina, leading to inconsistent availability for and ultimately shortening what might otherwise have been a longer international tenure. Later in , a shoulder injury sustained in domestic in November further diminished prospects of an international comeback. Despite these setbacks, he demonstrated resilience through repeated comebacks, though the physical demands of exacerbated the long-term effects on his performance.

Retirement from cricket

Jason Gillespie announced his retirement from in on 29 February 2008, during South Australia's Pura Cup match against in , at the age of 32. This decision came after his international farewell, with his final appearance in April 2006 against —where he notably scored an unbeaten 201—and his last in January 2003. Preferring to end on his own terms rather than face further uncertainty, he opted out of Australian domestic commitments to pursue opportunities abroad. Following the announcement, Gillespie briefly played in the unauthorised for the Ahmedabad Rockets before joining for the 2008 English county season. His final first-class match came in late September 2008, against at , marking the end of a career that spanned 196 matches and yielded 471 wickets at an average of 20.95. These figures underscored his effectiveness as a fast bowler, including 18 five-wicket hauls and three instances of ten wickets in a match. Reflecting on his retirement shortly after his last game, Gillespie expressed satisfaction with his achievements, stating he had no regrets despite the injuries that had limited his international opportunities in later years. He viewed the conclusion of his playing days as a natural transition, eager to channel his experience into coaching roles.

Coaching career

Early international coaching

Following his retirement from playing, Jason Gillespie embarked on his coaching career with an international focus by taking up the role of for the Mid West Rhinos, a franchise team in Zimbabwe's domestic structure, in August 2010. This appointment marked his entry into at a national level in a developing cricket nation, where he emphasized building foundational skills among players amid challenging conditions and limited resources. Gillespie's tenure with the Rhinos, which extended over two seasons until mid-2012, involved hands-on development of young talent through grassroots programs aimed at enhancing overall player performance and technical proficiency. Drawing from his experience as a successful fast bowler, he prioritized fast bowling techniques, including seam movement and endurance training suited to subcontinental conditions, while providing tactical guidance on field placements and strategies for both limited-overs and longer formats. His approach helped foster a more competitive domestic setup, contributing to Zimbabwe's broader efforts to rebuild its cricket infrastructure post-isolation. In June 2011, while still committed to the Rhinos, Gillespie expanded his international involvement by serving as assistant coach for A's tour of , supporting head coach Troy Cooley during a tri-series against and A, followed by two four-day matches against the hosts. This role allowed him to apply his recent Zimbabwean insights to international competition, focusing on preparing emerging Australian bowlers for overseas challenges and integrating tactical inputs for white-ball and multi-day games. In July 2017, Gillespie served as interim head coach for , taking over ahead of international commitments to guide the team in developing its playing structure.

Domestic and franchise roles

In November 2011, Gillespie was appointed head coach of , a role he held until the end of the 2016 season. In his first year, Yorkshire earned promotion from Division Two of the . Under his leadership, the team won back-to-back titles in 2014 and 2015, the club's first in 11 years. Gillespie began his prominent domestic coaching career with the in the (BBL), taking over as head coach ahead of the 2015–16 season and serving for nine years until June 2024. Under his leadership, the Strikers achieved their maiden BBL championship in the 2017–18 season and made multiple finals appearances, including semi-finals in 2017–18, 2020–21, and 2022–23, as well as a runners-up finish in 2019–20. His tenure emphasized building a competitive squad through strategic player development and tactical innovation in the fast-paced T20 format. In 2018, Gillespie was appointed head coach of on a three-year deal, a role he held until the end of the 2020 season. had been relegated to Division Two of the in 2018, and Gillespie's focus was on rebuilding the side by nurturing young talent and fostering a positive team environment. During his time, the team showed progress in developing an exciting group of players, though they remained in the second division, with his departure prompted by a return to for family and professional opportunities. Returning to Australia, Gillespie was named head coach of the South Australia Redbacks in August 2020, assuming full-time duties ahead of the 2020–21 season and continuing until his resignation in March 2024. He took over during a transitional period marked by the retirement of several veteran players, aiming to rebuild the team's culture and performance in first-class cricket. In the Sheffield Shield, South Australia had mixed results under his guidance, finishing sixth in 2021–22, fourth in 2022–23, and fifth in 2023–24, though Gillespie highlighted improvements in youth integration and long-term pathways despite the challenging outcomes. His prior roles with international sides, such as Australia A and Papua New Guinea, had solidified his reputation as a tactical expert in domestic setups.

Pakistan national team

On 28 April 2024, Jason Gillespie was appointed as the of Pakistan's Test team by the (PCB) for a two-year term, tasked with leading the side in key fixtures including the home Test series against in October-November 2024 and an away tour to . During the England series, Pakistan suffered a 2-1 defeat, with Gillespie's influence reportedly diminished as he was stripped of a formal role in team selections prior to the third Test. Gillespie's tenure lasted just eight months, culminating in his resignation on 12 December 2024, ahead of the tour, which he refused to join. He cited multiple grievances, including severe PCB interference that left him "completely and utterly blindsided" by key decisions such as the abrupt sacking of high-performance coach , exclusion from team selection processes, and undermining by officials like , who reportedly campaigned against him internally. Additionally, Gillespie highlighted a lack of administrative support and ongoing payment delays, which extended into disputes over unpaid dues post-resignation. In 2025, Gillespie continued to voice public criticisms of the PCB and his successor , whom he labeled a "" for allegedly plotting to replace him and while undermining their authority during the tenure. The experience soured his enthusiasm for coaching, leading him to express reluctance for full-time roles and instead pursue opportunities in commentary and interviews, such as analyzing India's batting order during the 2025 T20I series against .

Achievements and legacy

Key records

Jason Gillespie took 259 wickets in 71 Test matches for Australia, placing him fifth on the list of Australia's leading Test wicket-takers at the time of his international retirement in 2006. His career-best innings bowling figures were 7/37, achieved against at in 1997, while his best match haul was 9/80 against at in 2004. In One Day Internationals, Gillespie claimed 142 wickets across 97 matches, with his finest performance being 5/22 against at Perth in 2002. As a lower-order batsman, Gillespie accumulated 1,218 runs in Tests at an average of 18.73, including one century. His highest score of 201 not out came in his final Test against at in 2006, serving as a —a record that remains the highest by any player in that role as of 2025. This innings earned him the Man of the Match award and contributed to Australia's series victory. Gillespie was a member of Australia's squad that won the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, though he was sidelined by injury during the tournament and did not feature in the playing XI for the final.

Impact on cricket

Jason Gillespie's impact on cricket is most notably felt through his contributions as a fast bowler during Australia's dominant era in the late 1990s and early 2000s, where he formed part of a formidable pace attack alongside and that underpinned the team's unprecedented success. Over 71 matches, he claimed 259 wickets at an average of 26.13, placing him fifth on the list of Australia's leading wicket-takers at the time of his retirement in 2006. His endurance and accuracy were pivotal in high-stakes series, including the 2001 Ashes where his performances earned him recognition as one of the in 2002. A standout achievement came during Australia's historic 2-1 Test series victory in in —their first series win there since 1969-70—where Gillespie emerged as the leading Australian wicket-taker with 20 scalps at an average of 16.15, including career-best figures of 9/80 in the decisive third Test at . His tactical approach, emphasizing stump-to-stump bowling to neutralize key Indian batsmen like and , exemplified the strategic evolution of pace bowling in subcontinental conditions and contributed significantly to breaking India's home dominance. Beyond his bowling prowess, Gillespie's batting added an unexpected dimension to his legacy, particularly his unbeaten 201 in the second Test against Bangladesh in 2006—his final international appearance—which remains the highest score by a designated nightwatchman in Test history as of 2025. This innings, scored off 425 balls with 26 fours, rescued Australia from 3/210 to a declaration at 4/581, securing a comprehensive victory and earning him Man of the Match and Man of the Series honors. It highlighted the resilience of lower-order contributions in modern Test cricket. As the first acknowledged Indigenous male Test cricketer for —his great-grandfather was a Kamilaroi warrior—Gillespie broke significant cultural barriers when he debuted in 1996, inspiring future generations of Aboriginal and Islander players. His trailblazing role has been credited with fostering greater representation and support for Indigenous youth in , as evidenced by his involvement in programs like the National Indigenous Cricket Championships and the emergence of players like his son Jackson. This pioneering status extends his influence beyond the field, promoting inclusivity in a sport historically dominated by non-Indigenous .

References

  1. https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/jason-gillespie-5392
  2. https://www.cricbuzz.com/profiles/40/jason-gillespie
  3. https://www.wisden.com/players/jason-gillespie-1230
  4. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-01-10/jason-gillespie-on-being-first-male-aboriginal-test-cricketer/100747690
  5. https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/jason-gillespie-5392/matches
  6. https://www.topendsports.com/sport/cricket/profiles/gillespie-jason.htm
  7. https://www.howstat.com/Cricket/statistics/Players/PlayerOverview.asp?PlayerId=2082
  8. https://www.relianceiccrankings.com/playerdisplay/test/bowling/2165-jason-gillespie/
  9. https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/jason-gillespie-5392/bowling-batting-stats
  10. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/gillespie-steps-down-in-adelaide-340160
  11. https://www.sportskeeda.com/player/jason-gillespie
  12. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/jason-gillespie-s-new-coaching-job-469505
  13. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/apr/08/jason-gillespie-trevor-bayliss-yorkshire-coach-england
  14. https://nit.com.au/29-03-2024/10543/gillespie-resigns-from-redbacks-strikers-coaching-roles
  15. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/why-jason-gillespie-resigned-as-pakistans-test-cricket-coach/articleshow/116312741.cms
  16. https://www.firstpost.com/firstcricket/pakistan-cricket-team-jason-gillespie-shares-poor-experience-13877624.html
  17. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/jason-gillespie-fires-fresh-shot-at-pcb-shockingly-reveals-he-hasnt-been-paid-yet-still-waiting-on-remuneration-101745157031908.html
  18. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/apr/08/jason-gillespie-australia-yorkshire-interview
  19. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/jason-gillespies-wife-anna-daughter-sapphire-and-sons-news-photo/80055960
  20. https://www.everand.com/book/390325496/Dizzy-The-Jason-Gillespie-Story
  21. https://www.indailysa.com.au/news/archive/2022/01/10/dizzy-heights-hall-of-fame-honour-for-sa-paceman
  22. https://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Players/2/2285/2285.html
  23. https://downloads.cricinfo.com/link_to_database/ARCHIVE/WORLD_CUPS/WC96/PLAYERS/AUS/GILLESPIE_JN/
  24. https://www.wisden.com/cricket-features/jason-gillespie-top-ten-moments-in-his-own-words
  25. https://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket/how-did-we-not-win-that-inside-the-magical-1996-sheffield-shield-final-that-brought-gilly-to-tears/news-story/f18057c9e6635401c29911e06c7b0965
  26. https://kids.kiddle.co/Jason_Gillespie
  27. https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/cricket/jason-gillespie-a-fearsome-player-now-forging-a-reputation-as-one-the-worlds-finest-cricket-coaches-838039
  28. https://www.thecricketer.com/topics/yorkshire/yorkshire_county_championship_2001_victory.html
  29. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/jason-gillespie-signs-for-glamorgan-332809
  30. https://glamorgancricketarchives.com/jason-gillespie/
  31. https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/jason-gillespie-retires
  32. https://www.howstat.com/cricket/statistics/Players/PlayerOverview.asp?PlayerID=2082
  33. https://www.espncricinfo.com/gallery/dizzy-heights-340220
  34. https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/jason-gillespie
  35. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/australia-s-best-strike-bowler-941849
  36. https://www.insidesport.in/cricket/players/jason-gillespie/
  37. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/gillespie-returns-home-from-world-cup-bracken-drafted-in-to-cover-130265
  38. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/icc-world-cup-2002-03-61124/australia-vs-india-11th-match-65244/full-scorecard
  39. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/icc-world-cup-2002-03-61124
  40. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/the-best-night-watchman-in-tests-part-i-612161
  41. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/australia-tour-of-bangladesh-2005-06-210721/bangladesh-vs-australia-2nd-test-238172/full-scorecard
  42. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/apr/19/cricket.australiacricketteam
  43. https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/on-this-day-april-19-2006-jason-gillespie-double-hundred-vs-bangladesh-highest-ever-individual-score-by-nightwatchman-test-cricket-record-ponting-hussey-hayden-1668639-2020-04-19
  44. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2004-10-17/martyn-leads-australian-fight-back/569856
  45. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/jason-gillespie-s-string-of-injuries-92365
  46. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/gillespie-out-of-boxing-day-test-98101
  47. https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/sport/[cricket](/page/Cricket)/443506.stm
  48. https://www.[espncricinfo](/page/ESPNcricinfo).com/story/gillespie-returns-home-from-world-cup-bracken-drafted-in-to-cover-130265
  49. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2003-10-11/injuries-hit-aussie-bowlers/1491490
  50. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/nov/06/ashes2006.cricket1
  51. https://www.smh.com.au/national/dizzy-injury-curse-strikes-again-20030303-gdgcx7.html
  52. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/gillespie-announces-retirement-20080301-gds37a.html
  53. https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/3213155/gillespie-confirms-retirement
  54. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/gillespie-happy-with-retirement-decision-372193
  55. https://www.dawn.com/news/323624/retired-gillespie-has-no-regrets
  56. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/zimbabwe-news-jason-gillespie-to-coach-midwest-rhinos-468459
  57. https://www.talkingtalent.com.au/speakers/jason-gillespie/
  58. https://www.news.com.au/sport/cricket/former-fast-bowler-jason-gillespie-is-now-coaching-in-england-after-a-stint-in-zimbabwe/news-story/5119e17239465291bae554646bce7fba
  59. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/australian-news-jason-gillespie-named-assistant-coach-of-australia-a-517615
  60. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-06-03/dizzy-named-australia-a-assistant/2744738
  61. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/jason-gillespie-named-interim-png-coach-1110839
  62. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/jason-gillespie-and-gary-kirsten-look-forward-to-their-coaching-stints-with-pakistan-1431491
  63. https://www.adelaidestrikers.com.au/news/3943418/jason-gillespie-departs-strikers-after-a-nine-year-tenure
  64. https://sussexcricket.co.uk/news/jason-gillespie-leaving-sussex-end-2020-season
  65. https://www.saca.com.au/news/3943420/jason-gillespie-departs-saca-after-a-nine-year-tenure
  66. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/sheffield-shield-2021-22-1270433/points-table-standings
  67. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/sheffield-shield-2022-23-1322367/points-table-standings
  68. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/sheffield-shield-2023-24-1391768/points-table-standings
  69. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/apr/15/jason-gillespie-confirmed-big-bash-adelaide-strikers
  70. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/jason-gillespie-appointed-pakistan-mens-test-coach-gary-kirsten-named-white-ball-coach-1431295
  71. https://www.pcb.com.pk/press-release-detail/gillespie-to-coach-pakistan-in-red-ball-cricket-kirsten-in-white-ball-cricket.html
  72. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2024/oct/23/jason-gillespie-concentrates-on-pakistan-players-england-third-test-cricket
  73. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/jason-gillespie-quits-as-pakistan-red-ball-coach-1464747
  74. https://www.bbc.com/sport/cricket/articles/crrwq8g4ggpo
  75. https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/story/cricket-jason-gillespie-slams-pakistan-board-details-reasons-behind-resignation-2650420-2024-12-16
  76. https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/former-coach-gillespies-accusations-unpaid-dues-pakistan-pcb-refutes-claims-9957139/
  77. https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2025/3/6/jason-gillespie-labels-pakistan-cricket-coach-aaqib-javed-a-clown
  78. https://www.wisden.com/cricket-news/jason-gillespie-pakistan-experience-soured-my-love-for-coaching-im-not-sure-ill-do-it-full-time-again
  79. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-australia/jason-gillespie-weighs-in-on-indias-middle-order-shuffle-calls-indias-t20-world-cup-winning-all-rounder-a-subcontinent-bully/articleshow/125100837.cms
  80. https://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Players/PlayerOverview.asp?PlayerID=2082
  81. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/australian-trio-among-wisden-s-elite-110906
  82. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/we-sat-down-and-worked-on-it-jason-gillespie-reveals-strategy-that-kept-dravid-and-tendulkar-quiet-during-2004-series/story-pRVHnYXBpQaFeFM84TPqbM.html
  83. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/gillespie-reveals-australias-masterplan-to-choke-dravid-tendulkar-in-2004/articleshow/76356782.cms
  84. https://www.cricket.com.au/news/3286104/ditch-the-aussie-line-to-thrive-in-india-dizzy
  85. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/bangladesh-v-australia-2nd-odi-mirpur-dizzy-201-watto-185-510536
  86. https://www.cricketcountry.com/articles/jason-gillespie-a-high-quality-fast-bowler-who-signed-off-with-a-test-double-century-25394/
  87. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2020/oct/06/everyone-loved-him-jason-gillespie-leaves-england-as-a-national-treasure
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