Mike Hesson Clarifies Babar Azam’s Role, T20 Camp Preparation, and Player Selections for Upcoming Tour

Pakistan’s national cricket team head coach, Mike Hesson**, has clarified several key aspects regarding the team’s preparations, player roles, and selection process for the upcoming series. Addressing media questions, Hesson explained that there have been no discussions about **Babar Azam taking on wicket-keeping duties** and emphasized that the captain will continue to play as an **opening batsman** alongside either **Saime Ayub** or **Fakhar Zaman**.

Regarding Pakistan’s approach to T20 cricket, Hesson stated that no batsman has been specifically instructed to maintain a **150 strike rate**, but he acknowledged that **fast-paced play** has become a necessity in modern-day cricket. He pointed out that one of the primary reasons Pakistan is lagging in T20 cricket is due to the **team’s approach to batting**.

### **T20 Camp Preparation**

Mike Hesson revealed that the national team has been working intensively on various aspects of their T20 game through a **training camp**, which will last for **one week**. He stressed that the camp focuses on **improving key areas** and sharpening the team’s performance ahead of future challenges.

### **Player Updates**

Hesson also provided updates on several key players:

* **Hassan Ali** will be traveling with the team to the **West Indies**, as he is currently in great form. The coach assured that during the absence of some key fast bowlers, other players have been given opportunities to prove themselves.
* **Shaheen Shah Afridi**, despite being a world-class bowler, will be given a complete opportunity to **return to full fitness** and perform at his best.
* **Haris Rauf**, although **injured**, is still part of the squad and is expected to play an important role once recovered.
* **Salmam Mirza** has been included in the squad to replace **Hassan Ali** temporarily.

### **Selection Process**

Coach Hesson also elaborated on the selection process, revealing that he is part of the **selection committee**. He explained that the committee initially selects **20 players**, after which the **captain** and **coach** collaborate to finalize the list of **15 players** for the squad. This final list is then sent to the **Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board** for approval.

As Pakistan prepares for upcoming series, Hesson’s insights highlight the team’s commitment to strengthening both their batting and bowling units, while also giving opportunities for fresh players to make their mark.