Pakistan include six uncapped players for Bangladesh ODI tour as coach Mike Hesson looks to test emerging talent in challenging subcontinental conditions.

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Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has expressed confidence in a new-look Pakistan squad ahead of their ODI series against Bangladesh national cricket team, stating that several emerging players have earned the right to represent the national side after impressive performances in domestic cricket and for Pakistan Shaheens.

Pakistan have included six uncapped players in the squad for the Bangladesh tour, a move Hesson described as an exciting opportunity to blend youth with experience. Speaking ahead of the team’s first training session in Dhaka on Monday, he said the management is keen to give promising players a chance to prove themselves at the international level.

“It is an exciting group,” Hesson said. “We have got some fresh faces that have done well with the Shaheens and in domestic cricket. They have earned the right to get opportunities at the next level. Our challenge here is adapting quickly to the conditions and making sure we are ready to challenge Bangladesh in their own backyard.”

Hesson also highlighted Pakistan’s strong recent ODI performances, noting that the team has won its last two series convincingly with consistent batting performances at the top of the order. He believes the Bangladesh tour will provide a valuable test for the newcomers as they attempt to replicate that success.

The squad announcement attracted attention due to the absence of star batter Babar Azam. However, Hesson clarified that the decision was not about dropping players but about creating opportunities for emerging talent.

“I don’t think anyone particularly was dropped,” he explained. “It’s simply a chance for us to look at younger players. There are many who have been performing well on the domestic circuit and waiting for their opportunity.”

Among the players expected to make an impact are Sahibzada Farhan, who strengthened his case after strong performances in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and domestic competitions. Hesson also praised Shamyl Hussain for finishing as the highest run-scorer in first-class cricket and performing impressively in List A matches.

Another player to watch is Maaz Sadaqat, who has been on the fringes of the national team for some time and now has the opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage.

Pakistan will face Bangladesh national cricket team in the first ODI on Wednesday at the iconic Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. The second and third matches of the series are scheduled for March 13 and March 15, respectively, with all three games being played at the same venue.

The pitch conditions at the stadium were previously criticized by Hesson during Pakistan’s T20I series in Bangladesh last year. At that time, he described the surface as not up to international standards. However, he now believes there has been a noticeable improvement.

“Without doubt, the pitch looks far better than before,” Hesson said. “There seems to be more grass cover, and hopefully it will provide a genuine contest between bat and ball. Both teams want to play on quality cricket wickets and be challenged.”

With a refreshed squad and improved conditions expected in Dhaka, Pakistan will be aiming to continue their strong ODI form while giving the next generation of players a platform to shine on the international stage.