LAHORE – Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has called for patience and perspective following his side’s 41-run defeat to Australia in the second ODI, insisting the national team remains firmly on course in its preparations for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Addressing the media after the series-levelling loss at Gaddafi Stadium, Hesson stressed that Pakistan are still in a development phase and that building a competitive World Cup squad requires time, experimentation and faith in emerging talent.
“We’re very much a ‘work in progress’ as a one-day side,” Hesson said. “Our focus is on identifying and developing players who can serve Pakistan over the next few years.”
The coach strongly backed all-rounder Shadab Khan, whose fighting 71 was the lone bright spot in Pakistan’s chase, describing him as a player evolving from a bowling all-rounder into a genuine middle-order batting all-rounder. Hesson also highlighted the emergence of young all-rounder Arafat Minhas, who has impressed with both bat and ball since making his ODI debut.
“Arafat has made a terrific start. What stands out is his maturity and the way he has adapted so quickly to international cricket,” he said.
The coach dismissed suggestions that pitch conditions were responsible for Pakistan’s defeat, admitting the hosts simply failed to execute their plans effectively. Looking ahead, Hesson reiterated the importance of building squad depth and finding players capable of performing in all conditions.
“We’ll play on different surfaces and in different countries before the World Cup. Our challenge is to develop a squad that can succeed everywhere, not just in one set of conditions,” he added.
Pakistan and Australia are now set for a high-stakes series decider in Lahore.
