Shoaib Akhtar Levels Strong Criticism at Mike Hesson After Pakistan’s Asia Cup Final Loss
In the aftermath of Pakistan’s defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 final, former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar launched a scathing attack on Pakistan’s coaching and leadership. Akhtar described the team’s approach as suffering from “senseless coaching,” singled out head coach Mike Hesson’s decision-making, and criticized the captaincy of Salman Ali Agha.
Akhtar’s Blunt Verdict: “Senseless Coaching”
Akhtar expressed deep frustration over how the match was handled, especially pointing to team selection and strategic shortcomings. He emphasized that Hasan Nawaz should have been included in the playing XI to bolster the middle order. His words were blunt:
“It is the fault of the management that is not thinking right. Talking about senseless coaching … I probably say … it’s senseless coaching.”
He went further, calling captaincy “questionable” and questioning the decision to use Haris Rauf in a critical over when spinners were causing trouble for the Indian batters.
At one point, Akhtar even reflected on his own role, saying:
“It is beyond me … it feels like I am the one who is a fraud … who doesn’t understand a thing after playing 15 years of cricket.”
His emotional outburst echoed deep discontent within parts of the Pakistani cricket community over the team’s planning and execution.
Mike Hesson Responds: Focus on Cricket Amid Gesture Controversies
Coach Mike Hesson has addressed various controversies surrounding Pakistan’s on-field behavior and criticism. With tensions high from provocative gestures by players in earlier matches, Hesson urged his squad to stay focused on performance rather than off-field drama. He acknowledged that high-pressure matches bring passion, but emphasized that their priority must remain playing good cricket.
When asked about the gestures by Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan, which drew formal complaints by India, Hesson stated that those matters lie outside his direct purview and that discipline would be handled through official channels. Still, he asked players to “block out distractions” and maintain composure.
In commentary on previous matches against India, Hesson admitted Pakistan had allowed India more control in earlier games, but said they had fought harder in the more recent encounter, holding parts of that game “by the scruff of the neck” before a strong Indian batting display turned things.
The Bigger Picture: Friction Within and Without
This clash between past players and current management reflects the mounting pressure on Pakistan’s cricket setup. While Akhtar’s remarks may seem incendiary, they tap into a broader debate: whether strategic decisions, selection, and leadership are aligned with the strengths and temperament of the team.
Hesson’s role as a New Zealand coach now leading Pakistan carries expectations and scrutiny. He has been at pains to reassure supporters that the team has the tools to compete, but the public criticism from a figure like Akhtar intensifies the spotlight.
Finally, the backdrop of the India–Pakistan rivalry adds further weight. On-field gestures, political tensions, and broken traditions (such as skipped handshakes) have all contributed to a charged atmosphere. Hesson’s message of prioritizing cricket seems designed to calm nerves in that storm.