Pakistan’s Cricket Coach Discusses ODI Team Selections for Bangladesh Series
Mike Hesson, the head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, has addressed questions regarding the absence of key players Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, and Naseem Shah from the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh. The exclusion of Babar, who faced difficulties during the T20 World Cup where Pakistan did not make it to the semifinals, surprised many fans and analysts.
Hesson clarified that the decision was not about dropping established players but rather about giving younger talent a chance to shine. He emphasized this strategic move as part of preparing for the future, specifically looking ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will take place in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
“I wouldn’t say anyone was dropped. We just see this series as an opportunity for promising players to showcase their skills,” Hesson explained to reporters.
The national selectors have brought six uncapped players into the squad: Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, and Shamyl Hussain. Among these, Sadaqat, Ghazi Ghori, Masood, and Hussain have yet to make their international debuts.
Hesson praised Sahibzada Farhan, noting his outstanding performance in the T20 World Cup, where he was the leading run-scorer with impressive centuries against Namibia and Sri Lanka. He expressed faith in both Maaz Sadaqat and Shamyl Hussain to make a significant impact in the series.
“Sahibzada Farhan rightfully earned his spot due to his exceptional performances in T20s. Additionally, young players like Shamyl Hussain and Maaz Sadaqat have shown great form in domestic cricket and junior teams,” Hesson stated.
The first ODI match against Bangladesh is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
Pakistan Squad for the ODI Series Against Bangladesh:
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain)
- Abdul Samad
- Abrar Ahmed
- Faheem Ashraf
- Faisal Akram
- Haris Rauf
- Hussain Talat
- Maaz Sadaqat
- Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper)
- Mohammad Wasim Jnr
- Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper)
- Saad Masood
- Sahibzada Farhan
- Salman Ali Agha
- Shamyl Hussain
Stay tuned for more updates as the series approaches!
