Mike Hesson Accuses PCB of Keeping Him in the Dark Over Pakistan Test Shake-Up

Mike Hesson Accuses PCB of Keeping Him in the Dark Over Pakistan Test Shake-Up Mike Hesson has opened up about the sudden changes to Pakistan’s Test squad after the Pakistan Cricket Board made a dramatic overhaul during the ongoing England series. Hesson, who was originally Pakistan’s white-ball head coach, was brought into the red-ball setup after Sarfaraz Ahmed was removed from his role. The coaching change came alongside the decision to send seven players home following Pakistan’s heavy defeats in the first two Tests against England. However, Hesson has made it clear that he was not involved in the decisions that led to the players being released. Mike Hesson Clarifies His Role in Pakistan Test Squad Changes Speaking about the situation, Hesson explained that he only took responsibility for the Test team after several players had already departed. He said he did not know the reasons behind the decision to release the players. The development has raised questions about communication within the Pakistan Cricket Board, particularly because Hesson was suddenly asked to take charge of the Test side in the middle of an important series. Hesson was originally working with Pakistan’s white-ball setup before being asked to oversee the Test team following the dismissal of Sarfaraz Ahmed. The sudden transition left the experienced coach dealing with a significantly changed squad ahead of the third Test. PCB Makes Major Changes After England Defeats Pakistan lost the opening Test against England by an innings and 103 runs before suffering another heavy defeat at Lord’s by 194 runs. With England taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, the PCB responded with major changes. Seven players were sent home and replacements were brought into the squad. The coaching staff was also reshuffled, with Hesson stepping into the Test role. The changes attracted considerable attention because they came midway through the series and involved several experienced players, including Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha and Imam-ul-Haq. Hesson Wants a More Balanced Pakistan Test Team Despite the controversy surrounding the squad changes, Hesson has focused on building a balanced team for the final Test. He has indicated that he wants greater variety in Pakistan’s bowling attack and believes the revamped squad can provide a different combination. The coach also acknowledged the difficult circumstances surrounding his appointment. With very little time to prepare, Hesson has had to work with a new-look group while attempting to restore confidence after two disappointing performances. Pakistan Prepare for Final England Test The third and final Test between England and Pakistan is scheduled to take place at Edgbaston in Birmingham from September 9. England have already secured the series, while Pakistan will be aiming to avoid a 3-0 clean sweep. For Hesson, the match represents an opportunity to assess the new squad and establish a clearer direction for Pakistan’s Test cricket. The situation has also highlighted the instability surrounding Pakistan cricket in recent years. Frequent changes to coaches, selectors and playing squads have made continuity difficult, and Hesson’s comments have added another layer to the debate over communication and decision-making within the PCB. Conclusion Mike Hesson’s comments have shed light on his limited involvement in Pakistan’s controversial Test squad shake-up. The coach has made it clear that he was brought into the red-ball setup after key decisions had already been taken. With Pakistan preparing for the final Test against England, Hesson now faces the challenge of getting the revamped side to perform under difficult circumstances. The Birmingham Test could provide an early indication of whether the major changes made by the PCB can deliver the desired response.