In an unexpected clarification that has stirred fresh discussions in Pakistan cricket circles, head coach Mike Hesson strongly denied reports suggesting that he asked Babar Azam to take up wicket-keeping duties to retain his place in Pakistan’s T20I team. The controversy erupted earlier this week after sections of local media reported that team management had discussed utilising Babar as a part-time wicketkeeper-batsman to accommodate multiple power-hitters in the lineup ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming T20I tours.
The Controversy Explained
The speculation began after Pakistan Cricket Board’s selection meeting last week, where discussions reportedly focused on reconfiguring the T20I squad to address lack of finishing options and underwhelming middle-order performance. Media reports claimed that Babar Azam, despite being the premier batsman and former captain, was asked to consider wicket-keeping to secure his T20I spot.
Mike Hesson’s Strong Rebuttal
Addressing reporters in Lahore on Friday, Hesson labelled the reports as “unfounded and disrespectful towards a senior player of Babar’s calibre.”
Hesson’s Full Statement
“At no point did I or any member of the coaching staff suggest that Babar Azam should take up wicket-keeping to remain in the T20I side. He is one of our leading batsmen across formats. Asking him to keep wickets undermines his role and is not the way to treat a senior player.”
He further added:
“We are working on improving squad balance but rumours like these create unnecessary tension in the dressing room. I have spoken to Babar and clarified that his place is secure as a batsman and senior leader.”
Why The Rumour Gained Traction
Pakistan’s T20I performances have been inconsistent over the past year, with the team management experimenting with batting orders and playing combinations. Analysts say the rise of young aggressive top-order players such as Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris has fuelled debates over Babar’s strike rate suitability in T20Is, leading to conjectures about his future role.
Players’ Reactions To The Rumours
While Babar Azam has not issued a formal statement, sources close to the team said he was “hurt and surprised” by the suggestions. A teammate, speaking anonymously, said:
“Babar has served Pakistan cricket with distinction. Linking him to wicket-keeping was disrespectful.”
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Stance
The PCB is yet to release an official communication addressing this controversy. However, a senior official stated informally:
“Such decisions are never taken lightly. Babar remains central to our plans. No such proposal was discussed in selection meetings.”
Comparisons With International Cricket Practices
Using top-order batters as wicketkeepers to strengthen balance is not unprecedented in international cricket. Legends such as Rahul Dravid briefly kept wickets for India in ODIs to enable team balance. However, experts argue that Babar Azam does not have any wicket-keeping experience at domestic or international level, and such a move would risk injury while compromising his batting efficiency.
Hesson’s Approach To Pakistan’s T20I Strategy
Appointed recently as head coach, Mike Hesson is known for his analytical, data-driven strategies that transformed New Zealand cricket during his tenure. His focus in Pakistan has been:
- Building squad depth
- Improving fitness standards
- Creating role clarity for each player
- Grooming middle-order finishers
He emphasised during the press conference that Pakistan’s T20I plan revolves around building a fearless batting lineup while retaining stability through experienced anchors like Babar.
Fans React To The Controversy
The news triggered sharp reactions among fans on social media:
- #RespectBabarAzam trended on Pakistani Twitter, with fans demanding clarity and expressing solidarity with the star batsman.
- Some argued that while Babar’s T20I strike rate remains an area of improvement, asking him to keep wickets would be an insult to his stature.
- Others suggested Pakistan should focus on grooming specialised wicket-keepers rather than forcing roles on top-order batsmen.
Babar Azam’s Recent T20I Record
| Year | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 11 | 423 | 42.3 | 132.6 |
| 2024 | 8 | 295 | 36.8 | 128.5 |
| 2025 (till date) | 5 | 146 | 29.2 | 126.0 |
While Babar’s consistency is evident, critics highlight the need for a higher strike rate in T20s, especially with modern demands for a 140+ rate among top-order batters.
Expert Analysis On The Issue
Former Pakistan captain Rameez Raja commented on his YouTube channel:
“This is a typical Pakistani crisis. Instead of focusing on tactical improvements, we indulge in controversies. Babar is a world-class batsman and should be backed, not humiliated with such suggestions.”
What Next For Babar Azam And Pakistan Cricket?
With upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh and England, Pakistan’s focus will be on:
- Resolving selection clarity: Defining fixed roles for batters, wicketkeepers, and finishers.
- Protecting senior players’ dignity: Ensuring communication channels remain robust to avoid unnecessary morale issues.
- Addressing strike rate concerns: Encouraging Babar to expand his power-hitting zones without compromising his technical strength.
Mike Hesson’s Closing Words
“My job is to create an environment where every player feels valued and clear about their role. Babar is a special player for us. We will ensure he plays his best cricket without such distractions.”
Conclusion
As Pakistan cricket navigates another controversy amidst rebuilding efforts, coach Mike Hesson’s prompt clarification may help restore stability. For Babar Azam, this episode reaffirms his status as an indispensable pillar, while highlighting the urgent need for Pakistan cricket to manage internal communications better and protect its icons from unverified narratives that dent confidence and unity.
Disclaimer: This news content is based on official press conferences, team sources, and expert opinions. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute official statements from Pakistan Cricket Board or selection committees. Readers are advised to follow verified cricket board announcements for team decisions and squad confirmations.
