Mike Hesson Reveals Why Babar Azam Was Dropped

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Why Babar Was Left Out

Pakistan’s head coach Mike Hesson has opened up about why former captain Babar Azam has been missing from the T20I setup. His message is clear: Babar needs to work on his strike rate if he wants to earn his place back.

Hesson’s Explanation

Head coach Mike Hesson explained that it wasn’t about three games of poor form.

“It’s really harsh to judge someone on just three games,” he said. “But in T20 cricket, you’ve got to show more intent — especially against spin. That’s an area Babar’s working hard on.”

Competition for Places

Hesson also pointed out that the current top-order competition, particularly Sahibzada Farhan’s excellent form, made the decision even tougher.

Opportunities Ahead for Babar

Despite being sidelined, Babar isn’t out of the picture. He is set to play in Australia’s Big Bash League later this year with the Sydney Sixers.

Hesson’s Confidence in Babar

“A player like Babar is too good to ignore. The BBL is a great opportunity for him.”

Other Squad Calls

• Sahibzada Farhan has impressed, winning three Player of the Match awards in just six games.

• Shaheen Afridi has kept his place in both the tri-series and Asia Cup squads.

• Naseem Shah, however, has been left out again, even though he is currently playing in the CPL.

What’s Next for Pakistan

Before the Asia Cup begins in Abu Dhabi and Dubai (Sept. 9–28), Pakistan will warm up with a tri-series against Afghanistan and the UAE in Sharjah from Aug. 29 to Sept. 7.

Pakistan are placed in Group A alongside India, Oman, and the UAE. Their campaign starts on Sept. 12 against Oman, followed by the highly anticipated clash with India on Sept. 14.