Colombo, Sri Lanka – Web Desk: Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has clarified that sending captain Babar Azam to bat in the 11th over against Namibia was not advantageous during the T20 World Cup Super 8 stage.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Pakistan’s clash with New Zealand, Hesson emphasized that Babar possesses a specific skill set and the team requires him in a defined middle-order role. “Babar knows what is expected from him,” Hesson said, adding that his strike rate in the powerplay against Namibia was below 100, a performance metric not aligned with his assigned role.
The coach further noted that adjustments were made after the Asia Cup to deploy Babar in his specialized position, and while there are moments when other players may fulfill certain roles better, Babar’s expertise remains pivotal.
Hesson also mentioned that Fakhar Zaman is part of the squad and will play when needed, and the team aims to field its best combination depending on pitch conditions. He highlighted the importance of spinners in Sri Lanka and noted that Salman Agha was only upset due to his dismissal. He praised Usman Tariq’s versatile skills in both attack and defense.
Pakistan is set to face New Zealand at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Saturday in a crucial Super 8 encounter.
