DHAKA: Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has voiced confidence in the revamped national side touring Bangladesh, stating that several young players have deservedly earned places in the One-Day International squad after strong performances in domestic competitions and for Pakistan Shaheens.
Pakistan have named six uncapped players in the squad for the three-match ODI series, with Hesson describing the team as an “exciting” blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent.
Speaking before Pakistan’s first training session in Dhaka on Monday, Hesson said the tour provides an important opportunity for younger players to prove themselves in demanding conditions.
“It is an exciting group. Some fresh faces have performed well for the Shaheens and have earned the opportunity to step up to the next level,” Hesson said. “Our challenge will be to adjust quickly to the conditions and ensure we are ready to compete strongly against Bangladesh at home.”
Squad announcement
The squad announcement drew attention after former captain Babar Azam was left out, although Hesson avoided describing it as a dropping and instead stressed that the move was aimed at giving emerging players a chance.
“I don’t think anyone has specifically been dropped,” he said. “This series offers a valuable opportunity to assess younger talent. The international schedule rarely allows several promising players to gain exposure at the same time.”
Hesson singled out Sahibzada Farhan, who recently impressed in the T20 World Cup, and Shamyl Hussain, the top run-scorer in last season’s first-class competition who also performed well in List A cricket and for the Shaheens.
He also highlighted Maaz Sadaqat as another player who has been close to selection and now has the chance to demonstrate his potential at international level.
“These players have consistently delivered in domestic cricket and have been waiting for their opportunity,” Hesson said. “This series gives them a platform to showcase their abilities.”
Pakistan head into the series with confidence following convincing wins in their last two ODI series, with Hesson praising the team’s recent performances.
“Our previous two one-day series were exceptional. We played solid cricket and the top order contributed crucial runs, which is always vital in this format,” he said.
Improved condition
Pakistan will meet Bangladesh in the first ODI on Wednesday, with the remaining matches scheduled for March 13 and 15.
All three matches will take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.
Hesson, who had criticised the surface at the venue during Pakistan’s T20I tour last year, noted that the pitch now appears to be in much improved condition.
“It looks like a far better pitch with improved coverage,” he said. “Earlier the wicket had not been great for some time, but even during the BPL we saw better surfaces.”
He added that the improved wicket should provide a balanced contest between bat and ball.
“There seems to be more grass cover and hopefully it will offer a genuine contest. Both teams want to play on quality cricket wickets and be tested, and at the moment it appears this surface could provide that.”
