Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has expressed confidence in Pakistan’s revamped squad for the upcoming One-Day International series against Bangladesh national cricket team, saying several emerging players have earned their opportunity after strong performances in domestic cricket and for Pakistan Shaheens.
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Pakistan have included six uncapped players in the squad for the three-match ODI series, with Hesson describing the team as an “exciting” blend of experienced players and fresh talent.
Speaking ahead of Pakistan’s first training session in Dhaka on Monday, Hesson said the tour would provide a valuable opportunity to assess younger players in challenging conditions.
“It is an exciting group. We have some fresh faces who have done well for the Shaheens and they have earned the right to get opportunities at the next level,” Hesson said. “Our challenge will be to adapt quickly to the conditions and compete strongly against Bangladesh in their own backyard.”
The squad selection drew attention following the omission of former captain Babar Azam. However, Hesson avoided describing it as a dropping, emphasising instead that the series offers a chance to test promising talent.
“I don’t think anyone particularly was dropped,” he said. “This is a good chance to look at younger players. The international calendar rarely provides an opportunity to give several emerging players exposure at the same time.”
Among the newcomers, Hesson highlighted the performances of Sahibzada Farhan, who recently impressed in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. He also praised Shamyl Hussain, the leading run-scorer in last season’s first-class competition who also delivered strong performances in List A cricket and for the Shaheens.
Another player singled out by Hesson was Maaz Sadaqat, who has been on the fringes of national selection and now has an opportunity to prove himself at the international level.
“These are players who have been performing consistently in domestic cricket and waiting for their chance,” Hesson said. “This series gives them a platform to show what they can do.”
Pakistan enter the series with momentum after convincing victories in their last two ODI series, with Hesson praising the team’s recent performances.
“Our last two one-day series were exceptional. The top order produced important runs, which always helps in this format,” he added.
Pakistan will face Bangladesh in the first ODI on Wednesday, followed by matches on March 13 and March 15. All three games will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.
Hesson, who had previously criticised the pitch at the venue during Pakistan’s T20I tour last year, said the surface now appears significantly improved.
“It certainly looks like a far better pitch with good coverage,” he said. “During the BPL we also saw improved surfaces here.”
He added that the pitch appears to have more grass cover and could offer a balanced contest between bat and ball for both teams.
