![Babar Azam and Mike Hesson chat ahead of third Test vs England [Source: X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1788873760099_MikeHessonBabarAzamPakistan.jpg?type=hq)
Babar Azam and Mike Hesson chat ahead of third Test vs England [Source: X]
Ahead of the third Test against England, Pakistan captain Babar Azam was involved in an animated discussion with head coach Mike Hesson. This comes amid massive off-field drama revolving around Pakistan cricket’s ecosystem.
Pakistan have already lost the 3-game series as they currently trail 0-2. Hence, the third Test at Edgbaston is an opportunity to restore the pride of the team amid severe scrutiny.
Babar Azam commands Mike Hesson in intense chat
Meanwhile, with hours before the toss, Pakistan captain Babar Azam and head coach Mike Hesson attended the practice session at Edgbaston. The duo later regrouped for an animated and intense chat.
In a video that has gone viral on social media, Babar appeared to be explaining his perspective to Hesson, and the latter seemed to be agreeing with it instead of discarding the skipper’s opinions.
While the exact details of their conversation are unknown, it’s quite plausible that Babar Azam was briefing Mike Hesson about how the series has panned out for Pakistan so far.
This is because Hesson took over the head coach duties just days ago. The PCB recalled Sarfaraz Ahmed after the Lord’s defeat and ordered Mike Hesson and co. to take over.
Apart from that, it's also possible that Babar and Hesson were finalising Pakistan’s playing XI as there will be ample changes due to a massive reshuffle in the squad.
Also Read - Mike Hesson Hints At Usman Tariq’s Test Selection Ahead of Edgbaston Clash
Big selection headache looms over Babar, Hesson
The unprecedented decision of PCB to make 7 changes to Pakistan’s squad for the third Test against England has put captain Babar Azam and head coach Mike Hesson in a fix.
Multiple changes are expected in the playing XI as seniors like Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Agha and Mohammad Rizwan have travelled back home. Saim Ayub is likely a replacement for Imam as an opener.
Ghazi Ghori is the front-runner to take over the role of a wicketkeeper. Also, Pakistan’s focus will likely be on strengthening the pace attack, with Ubaid Shah, Mohammad Ali and Abbas likely to be included.
Pakistan also need a strong top order as, so far in the series, they have failed to cross the 200-run mark as a team. Hence, both Babar Azam and Mike Hesson will be scratching their heads back in the drawing room as they prepare for the third Test.
Will Pakistan pay for PCB’s madness?
Recalling 7 players mid-series is abnormal, and when PCB confirmed the unprecedented changes to their squad for the final Test against England, the cricket world was taken aback.
Apart from players, even the coaching staff was changed. Interestingly, according to captain Babar Azam, he had no prior knowledge of such a reshuffle.
Hence, it's clear that the PCB acted solely on this thought. However, what may seem like a brave call may end up being one of the biggest blunders in cricket history.
The players added as replacements in the squad are inexperienced. Many arrived in England late due to visa issues. Hence, they have had little to no time for preparation.
In a high-pressure game against a full-strength England squad at Edgbaston, Pakistan players are most likely to succumb. While the series may have been lost, Pakistan still have to fight for their pride, and currently, it seems an atrocious task.
Also Read - Babar Azam Openly Sides With Mohsin Naqvi Over His Pakistan Teammates
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