Interim Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson is aiming for a much-improved performance from his drastically overhauled squad as they prepare for the third and final Test against England in Birmingham next week. The team enters the match at Edgbaston, which begins on September 9, looking to recover from a difficult start to the series.
Pakistan currently trails 2-0 in the three-match campaign following a heavy innings and 103-run defeat at Headingley, followed by a 194-run loss at Lord’s last Sunday. In response to these results, the Pakistan Cricket Board initiated a major shake-up, dismissing Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and replacing him with Hesson, who already serves as the team’s white-ball coach.
The board took the drastic step of sending seven players home, including senior figures Imam-ul Haq and Salman Ali Agha, the latter of whom captained the side at Headingley while Babar Azam was sidelined with an injury. Other departures included seamer Khurram Shahzad and left-arm spinner Ali Usman, who had notably taken a five-wicket haul in the opening Test. Seven new players have been called up to replace them, though only Abdullah Fazal and Saim Ayub possess previous Test experience.
Hesson, who was in Japan preparing for the Asian Games when the changes were expedited, admitted the transition has been testing. He was originally scheduled to arrive in the UK solely for a meeting with King Charles on Wednesday. Speaking to reporters at Edgbaston on Friday, Hesson noted that the past few days have been challenging due to the constant movement of players in and out of the hotel.
The coach acknowledged that the players are perhaps more accustomed to such turbulent environments than he is. While he noted that the squad is understandably disappointed by the recent upheaval, he emphasized that they have been professional over the last few days. He stressed the importance of moving forward and focusing on the upcoming challenge.
Looking ahead to the final Test, Hesson expressed a desire to build a more balanced squad that offers greater variety in the bowling attack. He noted that Pakistan is traditionally recognized for its pace, unique bowling actions, and mystery spin, elements he feels the team has not effectively utilized thus far. He remains hopeful that the group can now unite to deliver a more competitive showing in Birmingham. The report also notes that hesson, however, feels the whole squad can now unite and give a better account of themselves when the third Test at Edgbaston starts on Sept.9.
