Key points
- I’m here for a term of just over two years: Mike Hesson
- Hesson backs senior stars Babar and Rizwan for key roles
- Bangladesh strong team, not to be taken lightly: Hesson
LAHORE: Newly appointed Pakistan white-ball head coach, Mike Hesson, has confirmed the length of his tenure ahead of the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh. The former New Zealand coach revealed at a media briefing that he has signed on for just over two years, a period that includes both the T20 World Cup and the 50-over World Cup.
“I’m here for a term of just over two years, which includes two World Cups — T20 and ODI. It’s an exciting phase, and we’re committed to initiating change immediately,” said Hesson.
Appointed on 13 May 2025, Hesson’s first assignment will be the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, scheduled for 28 May, 30 May, and 1 June at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
Hesson confirmed his active role in squad selection, stating he was involved in selecting the broader training group and finalising the squad with the captain and coaching staff. “Yes, I’m part of the selection committee. I was involved in selecting a wider pool, and then the final 15 was decided collectively,” he said.
Supporting senior players
The 50-year-old also voiced strong support for senior players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, describing them as key to Pakistan’s white-ball plans. “Babar and Rizwan are top-class and integral to our strategy. While there are areas to improve, they’re working hard,” he said.
Both players had previously been dropped for the T20I series against New Zealand to give younger players international exposure. Rizwan also lost the T20I captaincy, with Salman Ali Agha now leading the side.
Aggressive, intelligent cricket
Hesson emphasised a clear vision: playing an aggressive yet intelligent brand of cricket. “We want to play bold but smart cricket. That’s the identity we’re building,” he stated.
Looking ahead to the T20 World Cup, Hesson said the team was focused on preparation and performance. He also praised Bangladesh as a capable side not to be underestimated.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s squad continued training in Lahore under the guidance of the coaching team. Players involved in the PSL 10 final were given a rest day. Training included fitness drills and skill-based sessions.
Pakistan squad
Salman Ali Agha (capt), Shadab Khan (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub.
