Mike Hesson Strike Rate Issue (Source: @dhillow_/x.com, @babar_thechamp/x.com)
Ahead of stepping into the ongoing Asia Cup, Pakistan shook up their squad, and Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s snub sparked debate. Despite debates, the management stood firm as they opted for a fresh squad to face the upcoming challenge.
As their strike rates and forms have been a concern in recent times, both of the batters remained out of Pakistan’s current T20 setup. Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson explained their exclusion, highlighting just how crucial strike rate is in the shortest format.
Mike Hesson Talks Straight About Picking Players
Pakistan has never lacked talent, but the management was slow to back emerging players. In the past few years, Pakistan’s star batter, Babar Azam, struggled with his form, and Rizwan was also in the list. Making a major shift in their strategy by excluding both stars from Pakistan’s T20I plans, they were subsequently snubbed from the Asia Cup squad.
As the move sparked buzz, Pakistan’s white ball head coach Mike Hesson stood firm. Before their opening match, he emphasized putting honesty first when selecting players.
“I think being honest in your assessment of players is important. What matters is coming from a place with no agenda, being objective, and being clear. I haven’t talked about anyone’s frailties specifically, but I have alluded to the demands of the modern game,” he said.
Strike Rates Drive Success In Modern Cricket
As the game of cricket has evolved in recent times, the T20 format is taking up the world. To survive in the shortest format of the game, strike rates are a crucial part. For stars like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, a dip below 120 has raised concerns. Reflecting on this, he emphasized the importance of the strike rate in the format.
“The strike rates required in the power play, especially in good conditions, are different now than they used to be. Players ask for honesty—they want to know what they need to work on. If you provide that feedback, there’s always a way back for them,” he added.
Coming from a successful Tri-series win, Pakistan is set to start their Asia Cup 2025 journey. Facing Oman in September 12, Salman Ali Agha and his team will aim to carry forward their dominating momentum.
