Pakistan coach says 2027 ODI World Cup conditions will require adaptability, not just pace-friendly cricket

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Mike Hesson has rejected criticism of Pakistan’s spin-friendly home pitches, insisting they remain relevant preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup and stressing that conditions across the three host nations will vary significantly.

The debate emerged after Pakistan’s victory over Australia national cricket team in the opening ODI, where spinners dominated proceedings. Spin accounted for 62.3 of the 86.4 overs bowled and claimed 11 of the 15 wickets to fall, with debutant Arafat Minhas taking a five-wicket haul.

Many observers questioned whether such surfaces would adequately prepare Pakistan for a World Cup expected to feature faster conditions, particularly in South Africa. Hesson, however, argued that this perception oversimplifies the challenge awaiting teams in 2027.

“The myth that all pitches in South Africa are quick and bouncy is simply not true,” Hesson wrote on social media. “There are venues in Zimbabwe and Namibia where spin plays a major role, and conditions vary considerably across all three countries.”

The Pakistan coach emphasised that the management has already conducted extensive research into the tournament’s venues and will use the next 18 months to prepare for a range of conditions rather than focusing solely on pace-friendly surfaces.

Hesson also pointed to Pakistan’s successful 3-0 ODI series sweep in South Africa in 2024 as evidence that spin can be a decisive factor even there. During that tour, spinners played a crucial role, with Salman Ali Agha starring in Paarl and Sufiyan Muqeem delivering a match-winning performance in Johannesburg.

Meanwhile, Pakistan will look to seal the ODI series against Australia in the second match, while the visitors attempt to avoid a third consecutive ODI series defeat against Pakistan.

One of the standout performers from the first ODI was Ghazi Ghori, who scored his maiden international half-century in just his second ODI appearance. His composed 65 formed part of a match-winning 127-run partnership with Babar Azam during Pakistan’s chase of 201.

Ghori credited Babar’s experience and guidance for helping him navigate difficult batting conditions.

“It gives you a lot of confidence when you have a senior batter with you,” Ghori said. “Babar explained the conditions, took responsibility, and told me to focus on rotating the strike. His presence at the crease made things much easier.”

Despite Australia’s depleted squad, Ghori warned against complacency, insisting Pakistan expect a strong response from a side renowned for bouncing back under pressure.

With the series on the line, Pakistan remain confident in both their immediate plans and their longer-term preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, where adaptability across different conditions could prove just as important as pace or bounce.