Pakistan cricket boss Mike Hesson laid down the law for two fallen stars who lost their Twenty20 spots after years of dominance. Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi helped the national squad reach back-to-back World Cup knockouts during 2021 and 2022 campaigns. The experienced pair missed out completely when Pakistan crushed Bangladesh 3-0 during Hesson's debut series last month. Both players currently sweat through intensive training sessions at a Karachi camp while fighting for comeback chances. The new coach insists the veteran duo remains central to future World Cup plans despite recent setbacks.
Hesson shut down wild rumors about Babar switching to wicketkeeper duties while clarifying the former captain battles Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub for opening positions. The right-handed batsman struggles with a sluggish 129.81 strike rate compared to his rivals who clock 133.49 and 138.48 respectively. Pakistan's dismal Twenty20 rankings reflect widespread problems with slow scoring throughout the batting lineup. Hesson demands aggressive improvements from multiple players including Babar who must accelerate his run-scoring methods. The coach believes Pakistan consistently falls 30 to 40 runs short during crucial batting phases.
Shaheen faces mysterious performance issues that Hesson refused to detail publicly while emphasizing the left-arm bowler's world-class abilities. The coaching staff identified specific weaknesses requiring urgent attention during the current training period. Quality players experience natural peaks and valleys throughout their careers according to the experienced mentor. Both cricketers remain viable candidates for upcoming white-ball assignments including future World Cup selections. Hesson promises continued support while pushing his best talents toward improved international performances.
Hesson shut down wild rumors about Babar switching to wicketkeeper duties while clarifying the former captain battles Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub for opening positions. The right-handed batsman struggles with a sluggish 129.81 strike rate compared to his rivals who clock 133.49 and 138.48 respectively. Pakistan's dismal Twenty20 rankings reflect widespread problems with slow scoring throughout the batting lineup. Hesson demands aggressive improvements from multiple players including Babar who must accelerate his run-scoring methods. The coach believes Pakistan consistently falls 30 to 40 runs short during crucial batting phases.
Shaheen faces mysterious performance issues that Hesson refused to detail publicly while emphasizing the left-arm bowler's world-class abilities. The coaching staff identified specific weaknesses requiring urgent attention during the current training period. Quality players experience natural peaks and valleys throughout their careers according to the experienced mentor. Both cricketers remain viable candidates for upcoming white-ball assignments including future World Cup selections. Hesson promises continued support while pushing his best talents toward improved international performances.
