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Pakistan Selectors Shut Out As Hesson And Salman Call All The Playing XI Decisions

Jatin

Pakistan team [Source: AFP Photos]Pakistan team [Source: AFP Photos]

When it comes to Pakistan cricket, the selection drama never seems to end. But this time, the twist in the tale is pretty surprising.

Pakistan Cricket Divided With Selectors Reduced To Mere Spectators

The selectors have no role in picking the playing XI for the ongoing UAE Tri Series or the upcoming Asia Cup. Instead, all the calls are being taken by head coach Mike Hesson and skipper Agha Salman.

According to a Cricket Pakistan report, the selection committee has decided to wash their hands off the matter of team combinations. They have made it crystal clear that the coach and captain are calling the shots. That also means the decision to keep persisting with Mohammad Haris, despite his barren run, lies squarely with the team management.

Abrar Ahmed finally got his chance after sitting on the bench for far too long, but again, it was down to Mike Hesson and Agha Salman. The selectors are simply spectators here, watching the drama unfold from the sidelines.

Haris' Struggles Spark Debate

The elephant in the room is Haris’ form with the bat. His recent numbers paint a sorry picture with 52 runs in his last 10 outings, averaging just 5.77 with a top score of 15.

To make matters worse, he has been shuffled around the batting order like musical chairs: No. 3 in Bangladesh, No. 8 and 4 against West Indies and now anywhere between 5 and 7 in the Tri-Series.

Some reckon the constant chopping and changing has killed his rhythm. Others believe he is simply not delivering. Either way, it’s a storm that refuses to die down.

Sahibzada As A Backup Option

Word from the camp is that if Haris continues to flop, Sahibzada Farhan might be handed the gloves. But that idea has already raised eyebrows. Former skipper Rashid Latif openly questioned the logic of turning an opener into a wicketkeeper at this level.

Bench Warmers Wait For Their Turn

The UAE tour squad also includes Mohammad Wasim Jr., Hussain Talat and Khushdil Shah, but they are yet to get a look-in. With limited options and the coach-captain duo unwilling to tinker much, their wait may drag on.

Wicketkeeper Hunt Still On

Haris’ struggles have made the search for a reliable wicketkeeper the hottest topic in town. While Mohammad Rizwan is still in the long-term mix, the think-tank is also eyeing both old hands and fresh faces for the future. But grooming a new keeper is no overnight job as it will take time, patience and a bit of luck.

Right now, the selectors are nothing more than bystanders. It’s Hesson and Salman who are holding the bat when it comes to final say. Whether that proves to be a masterstroke or a recipe for disaster, only time will tell.