Pakistan’s new head coach, Mike Hesson, has thrown his weight behind senior players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, emphasizing their crucial role in the team’s white-ball future. Speaking to the media in Lahore ahead of the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, Hesson praised the duo as “top-class players” who are integral to the team’s plans.
Hesson acknowledged that there are areas where Babar and Rizwan can improve, but noted that they are actively working on those aspects. This endorsement comes after both players were dropped for the T20I series against New Zealand, as the selectors experimented with younger players. Rizwan was also replaced as T20I captain, with Salman Ali Agha taking over.
Hesson outlined his vision for the team, emphasizing a blend of aggression and strategy. “We want to play aggressive cricket, but also smart cricket,” he said. “We’re very clear about the brand of cricket we want to play.” This approach suggests that Hesson is keen to strike a balance between attacking play and tactical nous.
With the Bangladesh series looming, Hesson’s backing of Babar and Rizwan is likely to boost the confidence of the two players. Their inclusion in the team is expected to bring stability and experience, and Hesson’s comments suggest that he is committed to building a strong white-ball team around them.
Meta AI response: Hesson Backs Babar and Rizwan for White-Ball Future Pakistan’s new head coach, Mike Hesson, has thrown his weight behind senior players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, emphasizing their crucial role in the team’s white-ball future. Speaking to the media in Lahore ahead of the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, Hesson praised the duo as “top-class players” who are integral to the team’s plans. Hesson acknowledged that there are areas where Babar and Rizwan can improve, but noted that they are actively working on those aspects. This endorsement comes after both players were dropped for the T20I series against New Zealand, as the selectors experimented with younger players. Rizwan was also replaced as T20I captain, with Salman Ali Agha taking over. Hesson outlined his vision for the team, emphasizing a blend of aggression and strategy. “We want to play aggressive cricket, but also smart cricket,” he said. “We’re very clear about the brand of cricket we want to play.” This approach suggests that Hesson is keen to strike a balance between attacking play and tactical nous. With the Bangladesh series looming, Hesson’s backing of Babar and Rizwan is likely to boost the confidence of the two players. Their inclusion in the team is expected to bring stability and experience, and Hesson’s comments suggest that he is committed to building a strong white-ball team around them.