Jason Gillespie: Australia's Reliable Paceman Who Scored a Test Double Century
Jason Gillespie was a key part of Australia's dominant bowling attack in the late 1990s and 2000s, taking 259 Test wickets — and remarkably scoring 201 not out batting as night watchman.
Jason Gillespie was the unsung hero of Australia's fearsome pace attack during one of the most dominant periods in cricket history. Alongside Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, and Andy Bichel, Gillespie provided reliability, skill, and considerable pace across 71 Tests from 1996 to 2006, taking 259 wickets at an average of 26.13.
Playing Style
Gillespie was a classical right-arm fast-medium bowler who generated steep bounce from his tall frame and hit a nagging line just outside off stump. He could reverse-swing the ball and was particularly effective in sub-continental conditions when the ball was older. He was the ideal complementary partner to Glenn McGrath — giving batsmen no respite from either end.
The 201 Not Out
Gillespie's greatest batting achievement came as a total surprise. Sent in as night watchman against Bangladesh at Chittagong in 2006, he batted through to score 201 not out — the highest score by a night watchman in Test history and one of the most extraordinary innings by a tail-ender ever recorded. His team-mates were reportedly baffled and delighted in equal measure.
Coaching Career
After retirement, Gillespie became an outstanding coach, most notably coaching Yorkshire in county cricket and later Pakistan's red-ball team. His laid-back manner and technical knowledge made him popular with players. He is known for an unconventional, player-friendly coaching philosophy.
Frequently asked questions
What is Jason Gillespie famous for besides his wickets?
Gillespie is famous for scoring 201 not out as night watchman against Bangladesh in 2006 — the highest score ever by a night watchman in Test cricket history.
How many Test wickets did Jason Gillespie take?
Gillespie took 259 wickets in 71 Tests at an average of 26.13.