Gillespie’s intensity proved to be too much for most batsmen to handle

As one of Australia’s most lethal pace bowlers, Jason Gillespie terrorised batsmen throughout his cricketing career, claiming 259 victims in Test cricket and 142 in ODIs.

I had the privilege of interviewing the speed demon himself, and he provided me with some highly insightful answers.

Bimal Mirwani: What was it like opening the bowling for Australia with Glenn McGrath?

Jason Gillespie: An honour to open the bowling with a cricket legend.

Bimal Mirwani: What did it feel like to score a double century against Bangladesh?

Jason Gillespie: Hard to describe because I had never made a century in any form of cricket before that innings. Satisfying, yes absolutely.

Gillespie celebrates reaching his double century against Bangladesh

Bimal Mirwani: What would be your top tip for any fast bowler?

Jason Gillespie: My top tip would be to prepare your body and mind as best you can. Fast bowling is tough work and you need to be strong physically and mentally to have an impact for your team.

Bimal Mirwani: Do you think Australia are currently facing a crisis with the dwindling number of batsmen they have?

Jason Gillespie: There are young batsmen coming through the Australian system- they just need time to develop and the support.

Bimal Mirwani: What do you recall to be the best moment of your international career?

Jason Gillespie: Winning cricket matches was what it was all about for me. All wins were special.

Bimal Mirwani: What was your favourite ground to play at and why?

Jason Gillespie: Adelaide oval- home ground.

The Adelaide Oval will always have a special place in Gillespie’s heart

Bimal Mirwani: According to you, which batsman was the toughest to bowl at and why?

Jason Gillespie: Brian Lara. He could change the direction of a game. Wonderful player.

Gillespie never liked bowling to Lara throughout his career

Bimal Mirwani: What suggestions would you give to the Australian fast bowlers to avoid sustaining any further injuries?

Jason Gillespie:  Good habits on and off the field, prepare their bodies to bowl by doing all their work in the gym and on the track.

Bimal Mirwani: How are you finding your stint of coaching at Yorkshire?

Jason Gillespie: Loving my coaching job at yorkshire. Exciting times for our county.

Gillespie has high expectations for Yorkshire on the county circuit

Bimal Mirwani: In your opinion, who was the best Australian captain you played under and why?

Jason Gillespie: Played under a number of captains, Mark Taylor was great for me as a young player and Steve Waugh was very supportive. Adam Gilchrist led side well when he was given opportunity and Ricky Ponting led from the front. All had great attributes.