Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar launched a blistering attack on coach Mike Hesson following the team’s disappointing defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4s clash held in Dubai.
Akhtar didn’t mince words, specifically questioning the coach’s inexplicable decision to include Hussain Talat in the playing XI. Talat, batting at a crucial No. 4 position, managed a meager 10 runs off 11 balls without hitting a single boundary. This slow innings severely hampered Pakistan’s momentum, causing them to fall short at 171/5, when they had seemed poised to comfortably cross the 200-run mark.
“The coach needs to be held accountable – where are his brains? This is nothing but senseless coaching and a ridiculous selection of the team. It’s beyond my comprehension; it makes me feel like I’m the fraud, someone who understands nothing about cricket despite playing for 15 years,” Akhtar passionately stated during the ‘Game On Hai’ program.
He expressed profound frustration over Talat’s inclusion in such a high-stakes match. “For the last five or six games, we’ve consistently argued for playing the right team. In a fixture of this magnitude, you actually thought about playing Hussain Talat? How did that even cross your mind? What exactly is his utility? Tell me!” he demanded.
Later in the same panel discussion, when fellow cricketer Shoaib Malik asked Akhtar what changes he would implement if appointed PCB chairman, the 50-year-old initially dismissed the hypothetical scenario.
“Firstly, the PCB would never offer me this job. The reason is simple: I would do what’s right, no matter what it takes. I’m not asking for absolute power; I believe wholeheartedly in teamwork, logic, and collaborative effort,” he explained, outlining his philosophy.
Akhtar further emphasized that his approach to leadership would be radically different. “It’s not about ‘give me all the power, and I’ll fix everything.’ No, it’s not like that at all. I would prefer a 20-member selection committee, and I would genuinely seek their advice: ‘What do you all suggest? Give me your insights,'” he elaborated.
The former speedster also highlighted the critical need for consistent support and confidence in young players. “To truly fix Pakistan cricket, if I were given three years to lead, the young talents must be instilled with unwavering confidence. I would tell them, ‘Saim Ayub, my son, go out and play freely… Don’t worry, you won’t be dropped even if you get out early,'” Akhtar affirmed, advocating for a nurturing environment.