[EXCLUSIVE] "It has worked out well for the PSL to compete with the IPL": Mike Hesson

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In our latest exclusive interview, Mike Hesson, former New Zealand head coach and highly respected cricket strategist, shares his in-depth insights into PSL 2025, Islamabad United’s squad, and the evolving landscape of Pakistan cricket. With vast experience in international and franchise cricket, Hesson provides a behind-the-scenes look at team selections, emerging talent, and the challenges of competing against the IPL.

Main topics covered in this interview:

Islamabad United’s Squad Selection:
Hesson emphasized a data-driven approach to squad selection, aligning with Islamabad United’s philosophy. He highlighted the inclusion of the Shah brothers—Naseem, Hunain, and Ubaid—based purely on merit, particularly praising Hunain for his ability to bowl in crucial middle and death overs.

Shadab Khan’s Exclusion from Pakistan’s Team: While there is no official confirmation of Shadab Khan’s exclusion from the national team, Hesson strongly supports him as a leader. He lauded Shadab’s tactical understanding and ability to embrace analytical approaches in cricket.

Haider Ali’s Role as a Finisher: Highlighted Haider Ali’s transformation into a finisher, a crucial role for Pakistan cricket. If Haider delivers strong performances in PSL 2024, he could solidify his spot in the national team ahead of upcoming ICC tournaments.

Azam Khan’s Crucial Season: Azam Khan faces a make-or-break season in PSL 2025. Hesson acknowledged his immense talent but stressed the need for improved fitness and consistency. A strong performance in the league could determine his future in international cricket.

Impact of PSL’s New Schedule: With PSL 2025 scheduled slightly earlier, Hesson feels the league might benefit from reduced scheduling conflicts with other T20 leagues like the IPL, potentially attracting top global players.

Emerging Talent in Islamabad United: Reaffirmed Islamabad United’s commitment to developing young players. He pointed to Hunain Shah as a standout emerging talent, capable of making a significant impact in PSL 2025.

Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Prospects: Though he didn’t comment specifically on Pakistan’s chances, Hesson’s work with Islamabad United could help groom key players for national duty.

Future in International Coaching?: While currently focused on Islamabad United, Hesson remains a sought-after coaching figure. His return to international coaching in the future remains a possibility, but for now, his goal is to lead Islamabad United to success in PSL 2024.

Watch the full interview here:

 
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Shadab Khan was not on merit for the Champions trophy... He was nowhere near the team. I think He might make a comeback soon. I don't really agree with Hesson about Shadab here.
 
Shadab needs to remember how to land the ball on the pitch before he can even think about playing for Pakistan again. Last time he was playing all he was doing was throwing full-tosses. The selectors have been more patient than him than they have been with most other players. But Shadab's poor form stretches back a long way. At the last World Cup in particular, him, Nawaz and Usama Mir formed arguably the worst spin-bowling attack of the entire tournament.
 
Shadab is a spinner 1st. no cares for his so called game awareness if he cant even bowl a normal delivery. He was bowling full tosses and getting hit 24/7. should stay away from Pak cricket and play T20 cricket - franchise. With his attitude and lack of work ethic that is the best for him.

Azam Khan, well who ever plays him in his team cant be taken serious.
 
Its fair to say currently Shadab not being in the side is justified but if he has a good all round PSL season he can be a real asset to the Pakistan side.

If Hesson sees Shadab as a strategist he could be a future T20 captain and lighten the load of Riz who in my opinion should be made Test skipper.

I know through people who know Shan that he will be given this next Test cycle with the aim of winning home series consistently and winning 1 overseas series which will get us a WTC final.

Shan needs to up his game awareness and strategies as we have lost from winning positions far to often.

We have lost countless white ball matches due to poor game awareness and strategy and if shadab could team up with Hesson for the next white ball tournaments for Pakistan we can develop a style and a core to challenge and win tournaments consistently.

Provided there is no interference like Dizzy and Kirsten faced.
 
This season is going to fun as IPL and PSL would be in action simultaneously, with some big stars also featuring in their maiden campaign this season.
 
Shadab Khan was not on merit for the Champions trophy... He was nowhere near the team. I think He might make a comeback soon. I don't really agree with Hesson about Shadab here.
If you think about the merit on which Lord Faheem Stokes Ashraf was selected... I m sure you willl start seeing Shadab as the Don Bradman of cricket. :ROFLMAO:
 
If you think about the merit on which Lord Faheem Stokes Ashraf was selected... I m sure you willl start seeing Shadab as the Don Bradman of cricket. :ROFLMAO:
Faheem and Khushdil have been selected due to their form.

Every side has a core of 10 - 11 players that are guaranteed and the other 3 or 4 spots go to form players and what the captain and coach feel they need.
 
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