WEBDESK: Pakistan’s white-ball coach Mike Hesson has shared a bold new vision for the national team, stating that the time of relying on specialist batters is “over.” In his latest comments following a successful T20 series against Bangladesh, Hesson said the future belongs to cricketers who can perform multiple roles – especially those who can bat and bowl.
The new strategy, credited to Hesson’s influence, mirrors the style he successfully implemented with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
In an exclusive interview with ESPNcricinfo, Hesson said the foundations laid in the Bangladesh series reflect the kind of cricket he expects from Pakistan moving forward.
“We want players who can contribute in more than one way,” said Mike Hesson, explaining that modern white-ball cricket demands flexibility and depth. “You need at least six or seven bowling options in your playing eleven. If someone can’t bowl, they need to be exceptional in other areas.”
Hesson’s remarks come after Pakistan completed a 3-0 clean sweep against Bangladesh. The team showed a fresh and aggressive playing style, which many link to the influence of Islamabad United’s successful approach in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Pakistan’s recent foreign coaching stints under Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten ended abruptly, with contractual disputes and disappointing results. However, Hesson said he accepted the white-ball coaching role with “eyes wide open” and confidence that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared his vision.
He emphasized that the focus is not just on hitting big runs or chasing personal records, but on making smart decisions for the team.
Mike Hesson comments on squad changes
Addressing recent squad selections that excluded stars like Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Muhammad Rizwan to build a new team, Hesson said he has not closed the door on any player. However, those hoping to make the squad must understand and meet team requirements.
“It becomes pretty apparent if someone is playing for personal milestones,” he said. “Personal milestones will come naturally if you do the right thing for the team, and then the team will celebrate them.”
Fans and cricket experts are already noticing a shift in Pakistan’s playing style. More all-rounders are being included, and part-time bowlers are being used more strategically. This gives the captain more choices and allows the team to cover for off-days or injuries.
With full support from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mike Hesson seems committed to changing how the national team thinks, trains, and plays. Whether this new approach leads to long-term success remains to be seen – but it’s clear the era of one-dimensional cricketers is coming to an end.
