Pakistan’s interim red-ball coach Mike Hesson has clarified that he had no role in selecting the revamped squad for the third Test against England.
The New Zealand-born coach spoke to the media ahead of the final Test in Birmingham. He also discussed the rapid changes that have affected Pakistan’s Test setup.
Hesson Describes Challenging Few Days
Hesson said the past few days had been difficult as several players left the squad while new faces joined the team.
“It’s been pretty challenging. I was heading over here to see the king and be part of the nice occasion,” Hesson told reporters.
The coach also said the changes happened very quickly. He had been in Japan preparing for the Asian Games before returning to Lahore and then travelling to England.
“I am coming in at the moment as interim coach. Things have happened very quickly,” he said.
“We have pulled things together as quickly as possible.”
New Players Join Pakistan Squad
After arriving in Birmingham, Hesson held one-on-one meetings with the newly selected players.
He said the discussions helped him understand the players and establish a clear direction for the final Test.
“Once we got to Birmingham, I was able to have one-on-ones with the players to get some sort of direction, heading into the next Test. The boys are really focused now,” he said.
Pakistan brought several new players into the squad after losing the first two Tests against England.
Hesson Denies Involvement in Selection
The 51-year-old coach stressed that he did not select the new players for the Birmingham Test.
“Up until now, I have not been involved in red-ball cricket at all.
Hesson explained that three players had already left the squad when he took charge. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha were among those who departed.
Focus on a Balanced Bowling Attack
Once he took over, Hesson and the team management focused on creating a balanced squad for the final Test.
He said Pakistan needed to make changes and strengthen its bowling options for the conditions in Birmingham.
“From there it was a matter of finding a balanced squad for the third Test,” Hesson explained.
He added that the team wanted a bowling attack capable of competing effectively in English conditions.
“Obviously, we needed to make changes anyway, and we needed to find a balance that gives us the bowling attack the best chance to compete in these conditions,” he concluded.
Pakistan Face England in Final Test
Pakistan trail England 2-0 in the three-match Test series after heavy defeats in the first two matches.
England won the opening Test by an innings and 103 runs before securing a 194-run victory at Lord’s.
The third and final Test will take place at Edgbaston in Birmingham from September 9 to 13.
