Pakistan white ball coach Mike Hesson touched on the growing debate around Babar AzamHis absence from the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of Bangladesh starting March 11 in Dhaka. The announcement of Pakistan’s squad for the three-match ODI series created a lot of buzz, mainly because former captain Babar was not included in the squad. The threat comes shortly after Pakistan’s disappointing campaign T20 World Cup 2026leading to speculation that the team’s management may be moving in a new direction.
Mike Hesson talks about Babar Azam’s absence from the ODI squad
Hesson tried to calm the chatter, stressing that the selections were more about experience and building depth than about sidelining seasoned cricketers. Speaking on the eve of the Bangladesh tour, Hesson made it clear that the management is not looking at squad changes such as dropping players. Instead, he described the series as an opportunity to assess emerging cricketers in the 50-over format, which Pakistan have played sparingly in recent months. According to Hesson, the goal is to create a space for promising talents to showcase their abilities on the international stage.
“I wouldn’t say anyone has dropped. We just see this series as an opportunity to give these promising players a chance to prove themselves.” Hesson said during the pre-series press conference.
Several senior players are leaving the tour
Notably, Babar is not the only established name missing from the ODI squad. Pakistan is also left out Fakhar Zamanalong with currently injured Mohammad Nawaz and Nasim Shah.
The absence of these experienced players has opened the way for a number of new faces to enter the national team. The voters gave opportunities Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadagat, Mohammad Gazi Ghori, Saad Masoudand Shamil Huseynall have impressed in domestic or minor-level cricket.
Their inclusion shows that the management is keen to value the next generation of Pakistani cricketers and build a stronger pool for the future.
Also READ: Pakistan names 6 players in ODI squad for Bangladesh tour, no place for Babar Azam
Sahibzade Farhan was awarded for strong performances
Among the players who benefited from the shake-up is Sahibzada Farhan, who was rewarded for his impressive performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026.
Farhan’s aggressive batting and consistency caught the attention of the selectors, earning him a place in the ODI squad. Hesson admitted that Farhan’s recent form made it difficult to ignore him when finalizing the squad.
“Sahibzade Farhan forced his way into the ODI squad due to his exceptional performances in T20s” Hesson explained.
The coach also highlighted that players like Hussain and Sadaqat have performed well in domestic competitions and youth level cricket, earning them a chance at the international level.
Also READ: Bangladesh named strong squad for ODI series against Pakistan, Atif Hossain returns
