White-ball doors not shut for Babar, Shaheen as Mike Hesson opens communication

In a key development ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball assignments, head coach Mike Hesson has reassured Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi that they remain in the team’s plans, with no format ruled out for either player. The message came during a training session in Lahore, where Hesson met players and sought input on improving overall team performance.

According to details, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) arranged a training session for national players in Lahore, where meetings with the new coaching staff also took place. Sources revealed that head coach Mike Hesson assured Babar Azam that he remains a part of the team’s plans and that no format has been closed to him. He emphasized that Babar would be given opportunities as needed. Hesson also sought Babar’s input on how to improve team performance and asked which format he enjoys playing the most.

Similarly, Hesson had a separate conversation with Shaheen Shah Afridi, during which both the star batter and the pacer made it clear they are available for red-and white-ball cricket alike.

Sources added that Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are unlikely to be part of the squad for the Bangladesh tour. The team management believes the new players have proven their abilities in the recent home series and deserve further opportunities. However, there is a strong chance that Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufiyan Muqeem will be included. A final decision on this is expected in the coming days.

It is worth noting that the Green Shirts are scheduled to play three T20I matches in Bangladesh next month, although the host board has yet to announce the official schedule.