Hesson Assesses Pakistan’s Cricket Performance

Following Pakistan’s 2-1 series loss to Bangladesh in the recent T20I series held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, Mike Hesson, the head coach for Pakistan’s white-ball cricket, has provided his analysis.

Hesson took to ‘X’, a social media platform, to share his insights on Pakistan’s current status in international cricket and to lay out the strategic path forward under his guidance.

Hesson stated, “Currently ranked 8th globally, our focus is on building team strength and competitive spirit. We aim to develop a style of play that ensures greater consistency, especially in crucial tournaments like the Asia Cup and World Cups.”

He emphasized significant learnings from the series, particularly regarding the team’s adaptation to diverse pitch conditions and the tenacity displayed by emerging players.

“The initial six matches, played on contrasting pitches, offered us important insights. Our young batting lineup demonstrated potential with scores exceeding 200 early on. Mirpur, known for being the lowest-scoring T20I venue, tested our adaptability. Despite initial challenges, we rebounded and demonstrated a capacity to learn through experience,” he added.

The coach, aged 50, also acknowledged the rise of new talent and the dedication of the support staff in nurturing the team’s development.

He noted, “New players have risen to the occasion, exhibiting promise and, in some cases, excelling. Specialist coaches have been instrumental in enhancing the skills of our bowlers, both on the field and at the NCA.”

Hesson concluded his message optimistically, underscoring a noticeable improvement in the team’s fielding.

“Our fielding showed substantial progress in the final two games, resembling that of a top-tier international team. Moving forward,” he concluded.

It’s worth noting that this series marked Mike Hesson’s second assignment as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach, which concluded with a series defeat.

His initial assignment was a home T20I series against New Zealand, where Pakistan secured a 3-0 victory. The team is now preparing for an upcoming white-ball tour in the West Indies, which will include both ODI and T20I matches.

The future of the series remains uncertain, as the PCB has suggested reducing the number of ODIs in favor of additional T20Is—a proposal that might have been turned down by the West Indies Cricket Board, which has already commenced ticket sales for both formats.

According to a PCB representative, the final decision on the tour’s schedule is anticipated in the coming days.