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Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Sport
- Express Tribune
'I want Pak team to be nation's pride'
Newly-appointed white ball head coach Mike Hesson is determined to shape Pakistan's cricketing future for years to come. PHOTO: PCB Pakistan's new white-ball head coach Mike Hesson appeared in a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, and shared his coaching philosophy and vision for the team's future. Speaking candidly with former Test cricketer Bazid Khan, Hesson discussed his approach to player development, team culture, and what he hopes to achieve during his tenure with the Pakistan national team. Looking ahead, Hesson's long-term goal is to leave a legacy that extends beyond immediate results. "I would like the Pakistan public to say, 'This is a great team to watch,'" he reflected. Hesson, who brings years of experience from previous coaching roles, including the New Zealand cricket team, highlighted that his focus as a coach isn't on dictating how players should perform but rather on maximising their individual talents. "Coaching is about trying to maximise talent. It's not necessarily about telling them about the greater things that I have played during my time," Hesson said. He also emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with players. "Once you understand a player's journey, you can add value," he explained, noting that coaching is a more holistic approach rather than a one-size-fits-all model. His strategy revolves around understanding each player's background, what motivates them, and their specific goals before offering tailored guidance. For Hesson, communication plays a pivotal role. "Players deserve the right to know what's expected of them," he added, stressing that technical coaching and constant observation are key to his method. "It's about observing a player first before deciding when to intervene," he said. A significant part of Hesson's plan involves working closely with Pakistan's domestic circuit to spot talent. He noted the importance of developing clear pathways for emerging players. "There'll be identified groups of players where I'll be keen to go and have a look, talk, and meet players," he said. "This will ensure that players are well-trained, versatile, and ready to step up when called upon for national duties." In the years to come, Hesson hopes to lay a foundation for success that will endure after his departure, ensuring a smooth succession for future coaches. "If when you leave, things fall over, then you haven't done a great job," he concluded, adding that his focus is on building a sustainable model. Hesson's approach appears to be driven by a strong sense of long-term planning, aiming to not only improve the current team but also shape Pakistan's cricketing future for years to come. Uncertainty surrounds Asia Cup 2025: report The fate of this year's ACC Men's Asia Cup hangs in balance due to the recent cross-border tensions between two cricketing giants, Pakistan and India. The six-team tournament, originally set to be hosted by India, now faces significant hurdles due to ongoing political tensions between the two neighbouring countries. Last month, reports emerged that the defending champions and host are eyeing to pull out of the tournament due to the aforementioned reasons but the claims were soon after quashed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Meanwhile, as per the latest development, a top BCCI official has refused to confirm India's availability for the tournament, stating that they did not have any discussions regarding the Asia Cup. "To be honest, we have had no discussions within the board about the Asia Cup," a top official of the BCCI told Reuters, refusing to confirm whether the tournament will go ahead as scheduled. "We have been busy with the Indian Premier League and then we have India's tour of England. These are our immediate concerns," he added. Similarly, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was also uncertain about its men's team's participation in the continental event as well. "We will cross that bridge when we come to it," the PCB told Reuters in a statement. Earlier this week, ACC also announced the postponement of the Women's Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2025, which was originally scheduled to begin on June 6 in Sri Lanka. The decision follows a request from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) President Shammi Silva, who wrote to ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, seeking a postponement due to unfavourable weather conditions and growing health concerns related to the chikungunya virus outbreak in the region.
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Mike Hesson, Pakistan's cricket head coach, sits down by Bazid Khan to reveal his philosophy on cricket
Pakistan's new white-ball head coach Mike Hesson appeared in a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, sharing his coaching philosophy and vision for the team's future. Speaking candidly with former Test cricketer Bazid Khan, Hesson discussed his approach to player development, team culture, and what he hopes to achieve during his tenure with the Pakistan national team. Hesson, who brings years of experience from previous coaching roles, including the New Zealand cricket team, highlighted that his focus as a coach isn't on dictating how players should perform but rather on maximising their individual talents. 'Coaching is about trying to maximise talent. It's not necessarily about telling them about the greater things that I have played during my time,' Hesson said. He also emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with players. 'Once you understand a player's journey, you can add value,' he explained, noting that coaching is a more holistic approach rather than a one-size-fits-all model. His strategy revolves around understanding each player's background, what motivates them, and their specific goals before offering tailored guidance. For Hesson, communication plays a pivotal role. 'Players deserve the right to know what's expected of them,' he added, stressing that technical coaching and constant observation are key to his method. 'It's about observing a player first before deciding when to intervene,' he said. A significant part of Hesson's plan involves working closely with Pakistan's domestic circuit to spot talent. He noted the importance of developing clear pathways for emerging players. 'There'll be identified groups of players where I'll be keen to go and have a look, talk, and meet players,' he said. This will ensure that players are well-trained, versatile, and ready to step up when called upon for national duties. Looking ahead, Hesson's long-term goal is to leave a legacy that extends beyond immediate results. 'I would like the Pakistan public to say, 'This is a great team to watch,'' he reflected. In the years to come, Hesson hopes to lay a foundation for success that will endure after his departure, ensuring a smooth succession for future coaches. 'If when you leave, things fall over, then you haven't done a great job,' he concluded, adding that his focus is on building a sustainable model. Hesson's approach appears to be driven by a strong sense of long-term planning, aiming to not only improve the current team but also shape Pakistan's cricketing future for years to come.
Express Tribune
16-02-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
'CT crown more important than beating India'
Vice-captain Salman Ali Agha expressed his excitement and determination ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, emphasising the significance of Pakistan hosting an ICC event. Speaking in episode 58 of the PCB Podcast, Salman shared his aspirations for the tournament, his team responsibilities, and his personal preparations. He highlighted the rare opportunity for Pakistan to host a major ICC event, calling it a momentous occasion for the country's cricketing landscape. "I am excited for the Champions TrophyPakistan hosting an ICC event is special. As a Lahore native, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true. The Pakistan team has the potential to win," said Salman. With the Champions Trophy set to take place in Pakistan, the tournament marks a crucial milestone in bringing back high-profile international cricket to home soil. Addressing Pakistan's highly anticipated clash against India, Salman emphasised that while the rivalry is intense, the ultimate objective remains winning the tournament. "The Pakistan-India match is the biggest, but winning the Champions Trophy is more important. If we beat India but don't win the tournament, that win holds no value. However, if we lose to India but lift the trophy, that's a bigger achievement. Our goal is to perform well and win," he remarked. His statement reflects a team-first approach, prioritising long-term success over a single marquee matchan attitude that could be crucial in Pakistan's campaign. The 31-year-old also spoke about his role as vice-captain, acknowledging both the responsibility and the freedom it brings. "I am really enjoying cricket and the new role given to me. Being vice-captain comes with responsibility but also a sense of freedom. The victories in Australia and South Africa gave me a lot of confidence, and I always prepare thoroughly a day before the match," he shared. His leadership has played a vital role in Pakistan's recent performances, and his meticulous preparation has contributed to his consistent form. During the podcast, Salman also shed light on his teammate Saud Shakeel's disciplined approach before matches. "Saud Shakeel follows a unique process before a matchdinner and sleep by 9 PM, breakfast at 6 AM, and he's already heading to the team bus when we arrive. Playing and performing consistently in domestic cricket makes it easier at the international level," he revealed. It is pertinent to mention that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to commence in Karachi on February 19, with defending champions Pakistan facing New Zealand in the tournament opener. As part of their preparations, Pakistan Shaheens played a crucial warm-up match against Afghanistan, posting a formidable 314/8 and securing a dominant 144-run victory. Skipper Shadab Khan led from the front with an impressive bowling spell, taking three wickets as Afghanistan was dismissed for 170. The Shaheens will next face South Africa at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on February 17, while another squad will take on Bangladesh on the same day at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Express Tribune
08-02-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Naqvi backs Pak to win CT
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed his hope that the national team will secure victory in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan. Speaking to the media outside Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi urged everyone to pray for Pakistan's success in both the Tri-Nation Series and the Champions Trophy. "This is a big event, and I request everyone to pray that we pass through it smoothly and achieve victory," he said. Praising Rizwan's leadership qualities, Naqvi remarked, "Mashallah, Rizwan is a captain with a pure heart, and I am hopeful that under his leadership, Pakistan will win the Champions Trophy." The PCB chairman also lauded the laborers who worked tirelessly to upgrade Gaddafi Stadium, acknowledging their dedication. He further extended his gratitude to the contractors and NESPAK for making the renovation project a success. "They have achieved what seemed impossible, and they all deserve appreciation," he added. Naqvi revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to visit Gaddafi Stadium in the evening for the official inauguration. "I will request the Prime Minister to announce awards for those who worked on this project, and I am hopeful that he will do so," he said. Discussing the stadium's reconstruction, Naqvi admitted that many had doubts about the feasibility of demolishing and rebuilding parts of the facility within a short time frame. "When I decided to demolish parts of the stadium, people were worried that it might not be rebuilt. But with teamwork, we made it possible," he stated. Emphasizing the collective effort behind the stadium's renovation, Naqvi remarked, "This is not my achievement aloneit is the achievement of the entire team. Success always belongs to the team, not just an individual." He concluded by acknowledging the challenges of completing the project in a limited time but credited divine blessings for its successful completion. I lost 10kg due to my illness: Fakhar Zaman Pakistan cricket team's opening batter Fakhar Zaman has opened up about his health struggles in a conversation with Salman Butt on the PCB Podcast. Clarifying speculations about his absence from the team, Fakhar Zaman revealed that he was not injured but was suffering from an illness. "Anyone can fall sick. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, which led to a weight loss of 10 kg and weakened my muscles," he stated. Discussing his recovery, the left-handed batter admitted that it took time to regain full fitness. "This was the only reason I was out of the teamthere was nothing else. I am fully fit now, but the first four to five matches in domestic cricket were tough, and I felt as if I had forgotten how to play," he said. Fakhar added that he gradually improved and performed well, reassuring fans that he is now completely healthy. Speaking about the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, he expressed his excitement, recalling that his international career took off during the previous edition of the tournament. "I will try my best to make this Champions Trophy even more memorable for myself and the team," he remarked. When asked about facing India, Fakhar Zaman stated that he approaches matches against them with the same mindset as he does against any other team. He also shared his views on Babar Azam's batting position, emphasizing that for a player of Babar's caliber, the batting number does not matter. "I believe he will perform well as an opener and make things easier for me," he added. Concluding his remarks, Fakhar Zaman expressed his enthusiasm for the Champions Trophy, highlighting the significance of hosting an ICC event in Pakistan.
