Hesson Outlines Selection Strategy, Senior Players’ Future Uncertain

Pakistan’s newly appointed head coach for white-ball cricket, Mike Hesson, has commented on the roles of seasoned players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan within the national T20I team.

In a recent interview, Hesson stated clearly that selection will not be determined solely by player experience or reputation. He emphasized that players will be chosen based on their capacity to execute particular roles aligned with the team’s strategic approach.

Emphasis on Role-Based Selection

“The strategies will revolve around the roles we aim to implement and the desired style of play,” Mike explained.

“Once we finalize our approach, specific roles will emerge, and we will then identify players who can effectively fulfill these roles,” he added.

Hesson’s Aims for Pakistan’s White-Ball Squads

The former cricketer conveyed his enthusiasm for leading Pakistan’s white-ball teams, highlighting his dedication to introducing modern, successful cricket.

“I am genuinely thrilled about this opportunity and believe I can significantly enhance the Pakistan team. I aim to help us adopt a modern, winning approach to white-ball cricket that will inspire fans to rally behind the team. I am excited, but also aware of the challenges ahead,” he stated.

Upcoming Series Against Bangladesh

Hesson’s first official duty will be the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, scheduled at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is anticipated to release the definitive schedule shortly.

The recently announced squad for the series notably excludes prominent figures like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, suggesting a potential strategic shift under Hesson’s guidance.

Squad Updates

Meanwhile, pacer Hasan Ali has rejoined the T20I squad, marking his return since playing against Ireland in 2024.

Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub have also been included in the squad after recovering from injuries that sidelined them from significant events, including the 2025 Champions Trophy and the tour of Pakistan by New Zealand.

Originally planned as a five-match series with games in Faisalabad, the Bangladesh tour was reduced to three matches due to logistical and security considerations.

This adjustment was agreed upon following discussions between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) representatives, including Chairman Nazmul Abedeen and President Farooq Ahmed.

Both boards agreed to proceed with the modified series, reinforcing their dedication to maintaining strong cricketing relations.

Pakistan Squad for Bangladesh T20Is:
  • Salman Ali Agha (captain)
  • Shadab Khan (vice-captain)
  • Abrar Ahmed
  • Faheem Ashraf
  • Fakhar Zaman
  • Haris Rauf
  • Hasan Ali
  • Hassan Nawaz
  • Hussain Talat
  • Khushdil Shah
  • Mohammad Haris (wicket-keeper)
  • Mohammad Wasim Jnr
  • Muhammad Irfan Khan
  • Naseem Shah
  • Sahibzada Farhan (wicket-keeper)
  • Saim Ayub