After a period of uncertainty in Pakistan’s T20 International team, newly appointed white-ball coach Mike Hesson has hinted at the potential return of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to the shortest format. This move suggests a shift in strategy ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup in 2026.
Babar and Rizwan, once key figures at the top of Pakistan’s batting order, were recently left out of the T20I squad amid criticism over their strike rates. While their partnership yielded strong numbers, critics argued it lacked the aggressive pace expected in modern T20 cricket.
Under former coach Aaqib Javed, Pakistan experimented with more attacking players like Hasan Nawaz and Mohammad Haris to inject urgency into the batting line-up. However, these changes did not produce the desired results, raising doubts about the new players’ consistency under pressure.
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Mike Hesson, who brings a reputation for analysis and adaptability from his time coaching New Zealand, appears open to reconsidering Babar and Rizwan if they can address their strike rate concerns. Reports from local media indicate Hesson is keen to collaborate with the duo to enhance their T20 game and reintegrate them into the team.
With the 2025 Asia Cup and 2026 World Cup approaching, the experience of Babar and Rizwan could prove vital in Pakistan’s pursuit of success. Hesson’s approach suggests that past performances will be valued, and that a balance of experience and flexibility will shape Pakistan’s future batting plans.