Pakistan coach Mike Hesson has backed a new-look ODI squad ahead of the upcoming series against Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of giving opportunities to emerging players who have performed strongly for Pakistan Shaheens and in domestic cricket.
The squad includes six uncapped players, reflecting a deliberate effort by the team management to test new talent at the international level. Speaking before Pakistan’s first training session in Dhaka, Hesson described the squad as an exciting mix of experienced players and promising newcomers.
“It is an exciting group. We have got some fresh faces that have done well in the Shaheens and earned the right to get opportunities at the next level,” Hesson said.
Pakistan’s coaching staff believes the series will provide valuable experience for players who have been waiting for their chance in international cricket. Hesson noted that several of the selected players have been performing consistently on the domestic circuit and have long been considered strong candidates for national selection.
The coach also acknowledged that playing in Bangladesh presents a unique challenge, particularly for visiting teams unfamiliar with the conditions. According to Hesson, Pakistan’s success will depend on how quickly the team adapts to the pitches in Dhaka.
Despite introducing new players, Pakistan enter the series with strong recent ODI form. Hesson pointed out that the team had won its last two one-day series convincingly and displayed solid performances, particularly at the top of the batting order.
The squad announcement drew attention due to the absence of former captain Babar Azam. However, Hesson avoided describing the decision as a drop and instead framed it as an opportunity to evaluate younger players.
“I don’t think anyone particularly was dropped. It’s a great opportunity for us to look at some younger talent,” he said.
Hesson highlighted several players who have earned their place through strong performances. Among them is Sahibzada Farhan, who impressed in the T20 World Cup and has also performed well in domestic 50-over cricket.
Shamyl Hussain was another name mentioned by the coach after finishing as the highest run-scorer in first-class cricket and producing excellent performances in List A matches and for the Shaheens.
Maaz Sadaqat was also identified as a player who has been close to national selection for some time. According to Hesson, the series will provide these players with a platform to demonstrate their ability at the highest level.
Pakistan will face Bangladesh in the first ODI on Wednesday at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. The second and third matches of the series are scheduled for March 13 and March 15, respectively, with all three games taking place at the same venue.
